Dive into the refreshing and light flavors of our Pasta with Shrimp Salad. This dish combines tender pasta with succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, creating a perfect balance for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick and tasty meal, this shrimp salad is sure to become a favorite. Let’s whip up this delightful dish and enjoy a taste of summer anytime!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: If your shrimp are not already cooked, boil them in lightly salted water for 2-3 minutes or until pink and opaque. Drain and let cool.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, parsley, and basil.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Prepare
The key to this refreshing salad lies in the quality of the ingredients and the balance of flavors in the dressing. Use fresh vegetables and herbs to bring out the best in the dish. Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures it holds up well in the salad. Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: Serves 4-6 people
FAQs
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. The flavors will meld together even more, but add the fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavor.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it is cooked al dente.
- What can I serve with this salad? This salad pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, radishes, or avocado for variety.
- Is this salad good for picnics? Yes, it’s perfect for picnics and potlucks as it can be served chilled and travels well.
Enjoy this light and refreshing Pasta with Shrimp Salad as a perfect meal for warm days or any time you’re craving something fresh and flavorful!
