Seafood Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that perfectly combines the delicate tastes of fresh seafood with tender pasta and crisp vegetables. This versatile salad is an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal any time of the year. The base typically features a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, crab meat, and sometimes even lobster or scallops, providing a rich and savory flavor profile that seafood lovers will adore.
The preparation of Seafood Pasta Salad is straightforward and quick, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The pasta is cooked until al dente, then tossed with poached seafood and a medley of colorful vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and red onion for added crunch. A creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and seasonings brings all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
What sets this salad apart is its adaptability; you can easily customize it by incorporating your favorite seafood or seasonal vegetables. It can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for entertaining guests or enjoying a casual family meal. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, Seafood Pasta Salad is sure to delight with its vibrant colors and delicious taste, making it a staple in any summer recipe collection.
Seafood Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
8 oz bowtie or rotini pasta
1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb cooked crab meat (or imitation crab)
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/3 cup sweet bell peppers, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, red onion, bell peppers, and parsley.
Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, dill, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve: Serve chilled, garnished with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings