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Seafood Pasta Salad

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This creamy seafood pasta salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish loaded with tender pasta, shrimp, crab, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal, it combines seafood goodness with a zesty dressing for a delightful flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the salad:

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) crab meat or imitation crab, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup (35 g) red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the dressing:

  • 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the seafood:
    • If using raw shrimp, cook them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes or until pink and opaque. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
  3. Mix the dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning (or paprika), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Assemble the salad:
    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Chill and serve:
    • Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add capers or diced pickles to the salad.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
  • Use any seafood of choice, like scallops or lobster, for a luxurious twist.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.