Seafood Pasta Salad

There’s something undeniably delightful about a dish that captures the refreshing flavors of the ocean and pairs them with the satisfying bite of pasta. This Seafood Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of tender shrimp, succulent crab, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a creamy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or looking for a light dinner option, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: You can customize it with shrimp, crab, lobster, or even scallops, depending on your preference.
• Easy to Make: The preparation is straightforward, yielding an elegant and delicious result.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Salad bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 oz pasta (rotini, shells, or bowtie)
• 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lump crab meat (or imitation crab sticks, chopped)
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
• Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning according to your taste preference.
• For best results, let the salad chill for at least an hour to enhance the flavors.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Swap out the shrimp and crab for lobster or scallops for a different seafood twist.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing.
• Consider adding diced avocado for a creamy texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is packed with protein from the seafood and provides a good dose of healthy fats from the dressing. The fresh vegetables add fiber and a range of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a light sour cream for a healthier alternative.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Give this Seafood Pasta Salad a try and experience the delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that promises to impress whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering. We would love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any tweaks you might have made to the recipe!