pasta salad with shrimp recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pasta salad with shrimp recipe
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The Best pasta salad with shrimp recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – a delicious pasta salad with shrimp that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. The combination of tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and a tangy dressing is simply irresistible.

My kids love helping me prepare this recipe, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. I love how versatile this dish is – it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even as a side dish for a special occasion. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly healthy and packed with nutrients.

Plus, the best part is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or not, this pasta salad with shrimp is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead and give it a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is that it’s so easy to prepare in advance. Simply cook the pasta, mix in the shrimp and dressing, and refrigerate until serving time. It’s perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this dish is loaded with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the pasta. My kids are always asking for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) , which tells me they’re getting something good for them too.

Pasta Salad with Shrimp

Pasta Salad with Shrimp

4.5 from 1057 votes

A refreshing pasta salad with tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at summer gatherings.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons capers, drained

For the Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
4While the pasta cooks, prepare the shrimp.
5Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
6Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
7Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, then transfer to a plate to cool.
8In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Set aside.
9In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and capers.
10Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
11Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
12Serve chilled or at room temperature, and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For best results, use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives for extra crunch and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Pasta Salad with Shrimp Works

This pasta salad with shrimp is one of those magical recipes that never fails to impress. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply microwave or refrigerate until ready to serve. It also makes an excellent make-ahead dish – simply prepare the ingredients separately and store them in separate containers until serving time.

The great thing about this recipe is its versatility – feel free to customize it however you like by adding your favorite veggies or herbs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Salad with Shrimp

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using bowtie or penne pasta as they hold onto the dressing and shrimp well.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp if that’s what you have on hand. Just thaw them according to package instructions before using.

Q: How long does this recipe keep in the refrigerator?

This recipe will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without any issues.

Q: Can I serve this as a main course or just as a side dish?

Both! This pasta salad with shrimp makes an excellent main course or side dish.

Q: What if I don’t like seafood? Can I substitute the shrimp with something else?

You can substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu if you’re not a seafood fan.

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