If you’re looking for a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this Herbed Shrimp Pasta Salad is just what you need. Juicy, tender shrimp combined with al dente pasta, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing make this salad a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, for lunch, or as a side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Ready to toss up some deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Herbed Shrimp Pasta Salad
Enjoy a light and refreshing Herbed Shrimp Pasta Salad! Tossed with fresh herbs, juicy shrimp, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a summer meal or picnic.
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle work well)
- 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Substitutions
- Vegan: Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas and use vegan cheese or omit the cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium olives and season lightly with salt.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the bowl with the cooled pasta.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Add the chopped parsley, basil, and dill, and toss again to distribute the herbs throughout the salad.
Serve
- Serve the Herbed Shrimp Pasta Salad immediately, or refrigerate it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- For extra crunch, add some chopped celery or bell peppers to the salad.
- If you prefer a more acidic dressing, increase the lemon juice or add a splash of red wine vinegar.
- You can customize the herbs to your taste—mint or chives would also work well in this salad.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Salad: Add artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of pine nuts for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad: Stir in 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: This pasta salad is perfect on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a side of mixed greens. It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or as a light main course.
- Make It Ahead: The pasta salad can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Herbed Shrimp Pasta Salad that’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor! This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and vibrant herbs, all brought together by a zesty dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So grab your ingredients, toss up this delicious salad, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite. Buon appetito!
