Zesty Shrimp Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Summer Meal

Enjoy a light and flavorful Shrimp Pasta Salad, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Chill Time 1

Total Time 1 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz Elbow Macaroni Pasta Use whole wheat or gluten-free for dietary needs.

For the Protein

1 lb Cooked Shrimp Can substitute with canned tuna, diced chicken, or cubed tofu.

For the Crunch

1 cup Celery Chopped; substitute with cucumber or bell pepper.
1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper Any preferred vegetable can be used.
1 small Diced Onion Use red onion for a milder flavor if desired.

For the Dressing

½ cup Mayonnaise Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.
¼ cup Sour Cream Halve if using Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
2 tablespoon Vinegar White wine or apple cider vinegar can be chosen.
1 tablespoon Sugar Adjust to taste or omit for a healthier option.

For Seasoning

1 teaspoon Celery Seed Adjust to taste.
1 tablespoon Ground Mustard
1 teaspoon Salt Taste and adjust.
½ teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended.

Equipment

large pot
Mixing Bowl
colander
Medium Bowl
Whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Prepare Vegetables and Shrimp: In a bowl, combine cooled pasta, celery, bell pepper, onion, and shrimp. Toss gently to mix.
Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold to coat everything evenly.
Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, ideally overnight.
Final Stir and Serve: Stir before serving chilled. Enjoy at summer gatherings or as a quick meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 20gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least one hour before serving. Can substitute proteins or vegetables as desired.

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