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If you're craving something light, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Shrimp and Pasta Shell Salad is just the ticket. Perfect for a summer lunch or a quick dinner, this dish combines tender pasta shells with succulent shrimp, crisp cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a creamy mayonnaise and lemon juice dressing, it's a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds. Let's dive in!
Shrimp and Pasta Shell Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb shrimp, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
What You Will Need
Read more: Stuffed Shells Recipe
What you will need to make shrimp and pasta shell salad
- Pasta shells: Provide a hearty base, absorbing flavors while adding texture to the salad.
- Shrimp: Offer a succulent, protein-rich component, balancing the dish with a seafood twist.
- Cherry tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing the salad's visual appeal.
- Cucumber: Bring a refreshing crunch, complementing the other ingredients with a mild, cooling taste.
- Red onion: Introduce a sharp, tangy flavor, adding depth and contrast to the salad.
- Fresh parsley: Infuse a hint of earthiness and freshness, tying all the flavors together.
- Mayonnaise: Create a creamy, rich dressing that binds the ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Lemon juice: Provide a zesty, citrusy kick, brightening the overall taste and balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.
Tools and Instruments Required
- Large pot: Needed to cook pasta shells until tender.
- Colander: Drains and rinses pasta to remove excess water.
- Large mixing bowl: Combines all ingredients for even mixing.
- Small bowl: Whisks together dressing ingredients.
- Whisk: Ensures dressing is smooth and well-blended.
- Knife: Chops vegetables and parsley into bite-sized pieces.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Shrimp and Pasta Shell Salad
A refreshing and easy-to-make salad with shrimp and pasta shells.
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Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Colander
Read more: Pasta Salad with Dressing Recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb shrimp, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- 1. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- 4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- 5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes:
For a lighter version, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg
Read more: Pasta Salad Recipe
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook pasta shells and shrimp.
- Mix all salad ingredients except dressing.
- Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers.
- Combine salad and dressing just before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- Cook pasta shells and shrimp.
- Mix all salad ingredients except dressing.
- Store salad in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Add dressing before serving.
Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can make the salad lighter and add a tangy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
About 30 minutes, plus chilling time.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta shape works well.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely, just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
How long can I store this salad in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 2 days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Sure, feel free to add bell peppers, celery, or any veggies you like.
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