Elevate Your Summer Gatherings with Shrimp Pasta Salad
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful dish to serve at your next summer barbecue or potluck? Look no further than this delightful Shrimp Pasta Salad. Bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and succulent shrimp, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With a creamy dressing that perfectly complements the tender shrimp and al dente pasta, this recipe is both delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details and get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering creation!
Ingredients:
Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Shrimp Pasta Salad:
- 1 lb. medium shell pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 12 ounces frozen cooked salad shrimp, thawed
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 1 orange or red bell pepper, finely diced
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pressed garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling water.
- Drain the pasta and peas and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and peas with the thawed salad shrimp, chopped celery, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, and chopped fresh dill.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the shrimp pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with additional chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Swap the Protein: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with cooked chicken, crabmeat, or even canned tuna.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or shredded carrots, for extra crunch and freshness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Option:
- Substitute the shell pasta with cooked and chilled zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, in place of honey in the dressing.
- Adjust the proportions of mayonnaise and sour cream to fit your keto macros, opting for higher-fat versions if desired.
Low-Carb Twist:
- Skip the pasta altogether and serve the shrimp salad over a bed of mixed greens or spiralized vegetables for a low-carb option.
- Increase the protein content by adding additional shrimp or incorporating cooked bacon pieces into the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! If you prefer fresh shrimp, you can cook them yourself and allow them to cool before adding them to the salad.
Q: How long will the shrimp pasta salad last in the refrigerator? A: The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare the dressing and cook the pasta and shrimp in advance, then assemble the salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Of course! While shell pasta works well in this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sensational Shrimp Pasta Salad that’s bursting with flavor and freshness. With its creamy dressing, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or packing a picnic lunch, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer with this delectable shrimp pasta salad. Bon appétit!
