The BEST Seafood Pasta Salad
An Irresistible Seafood Delight
Imagine combining the freshest seafood with perfectly cooked pasta, tossed in a zesty dressing. The BEST Seafood Pasta Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table in a delightful, refreshing dish. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner, this seafood pasta salad will be the star of the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s packed with a variety of seafood, offering a robust and satisfying taste, while the pasta provides a comforting base. Plus, the tangy dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss gently to mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and seafood mixture, then add the chopped dill. Toss everything until well coated.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Success
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up well in the salad.
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, canned or frozen options work too.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more lemon juice for extra tang or dill for added freshness.
Additional Tips and Variations
Consider adding other seafood like scallops or lobster for a luxurious twist. You can also incorporate some fresh vegetables such as cucumber or bell pepper for added crunch. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta types like rotini, penne, or fusilli are ideal because they hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.
Conclusion
The BEST Seafood Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that promises to be a hit with seafood lovers. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it out and let us know how it went by sharing your experience in the comments!
