This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad is a delicious mix of juicy shrimp, tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a smooth, tangy dressing. It’s refreshing, protein-packed, and perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or make-ahead lunches.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6)
🍝 Salad Base
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bow tie)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill or parsley (optional)
🥣 Creamy Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter.
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces if desired.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, shrimp, vegetables, and herbs.
- Add dressing and toss until fully coated.
5. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they should stay tender and juicy
- Rinse pasta to keep it firm and fresh
- Add dressing gradually to avoid heaviness
- Chill before serving for best flavor blend
🔁 Variations
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
- Lighter version: Use more Greek yogurt, less mayo
- Seafood mix: Add crab or scallops
- Herb boost: Add dill, parsley, or chives
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and summer lunches
- Serve with garlic bread or grilled veggies
- Great as a make-ahead chilled meal
🔥 Final Thoughts
This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad Perfection is fresh, creamy, and packed with juicy shrimp flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion 🍤🥗✨