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Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood Pasta Salad Recipe


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  • Author: Katie Aldridge
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Chop the Veggies
    • Finely dice the celery, bell pepper, and red onion for that perfect crunch.
  4. 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!
  5. 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.
  6. 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
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