Description
This Seafood Pasta Salad is creamy, refreshing, and packed with succulent seafood, crunchy veggies, and a luscious dressing with a secret creamy twist! Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or meal prep, this dish will be your new go-to favorite.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz pasta (rotini, elbow, or penne)- 1 cup cooked shrimp (chopped)
- 1 cup crab meat (or imitation crab, shredded)
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp capers (optional, but adds a nice briny kick!)
For the Salad:
- 8 oz pasta (rotini, elbow, or penne)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp (chopped)
- 1 cup crab meat (or imitation crab, shredded)
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp capers (optional, but adds a nice briny kick!)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta 1 minute less than package instructions (al dente is key!)
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Seafood
- If using shrimp, boil for 2-3 minutes, then immediately place in an ice bath to keep them juicy. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- If using crab meat, gently shred it into chunks.
- Chop the Veggies
- Finely dice the celery, bell pepper, and red onion for that perfect crunch.
- Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise + Greek yogurt (for the ultimate creamy balance)
- Dijon mustard + lemon juice (to add a zesty kick)
- Old Bay seasoning + garlic powder (hello, flavor!)
- Honey (to subtly round out the tanginess)
- Fresh dill (because fresh herbs = next-level taste)
- Blend for 30 seconds if you want an ultra-smooth consistency!
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, seafood, chopped veggies, and capers (if using).
- Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to enhance the flavors.
- Before serving, give it a quick mix and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of lemon for that finishing touch!
Notes
Make it Healthier: Swap mayo for all Greek yogurt or use a light mayo.- Add Extra Protein: Toss in boiled eggs or extra shrimp.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea or lentil pasta for a GF version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Cuisine: American