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Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad

Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad That’s Perfect for Summer Gatherings

A delicious creamy shrimp pasta salad that combines succulent shrimp with fresh ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot
  • small bowl
  • - Salad bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 3 cups fusilli pasta uncooked

For the Shrimp

  • 1 pound shrimp (31-40 size) thawed & peeled

For the Veggies

  • 2 sticks celery chopped small
  • 2 tablespoons red onion chopped small

For the Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 zest lemon zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • smoked paprika to taste

Instructions
 

  • Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 3 cups of fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process.
  • Thaw the shrimp under cool running water if needed, then peel and devein them. Boil another pot of water, and once boiling, add the shrimp, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain the shrimp and plunge them into an ice bath, then pat dry with a paper towel.
  • While the shrimp cools, take 2 sticks of celery and 2 tablespoons of red onion and chop them into small pieces. Add these veggies to a large salad bowl.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayo, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, the zest of 1 lemon, 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the salad bowl with the veggies. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • For a delightful finish, lightly sprinkle smoked paprika over the top of the salad, adding a smoky touch to each bite.
  • Cover the salad bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and it’s best served very cold.

Notes

Use fresh dill and lemon juice for the best flavor; avoid freezing due to the creamy dressing.
Keyword Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad, pasta salad, Refreshing Dish, Seafood Salad, Shrimp Salad, summer salad