Here’s a delicious recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad—tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a garlicky creamy dressing make this perfect for lunch, picnics, or potlucks 🦐🥗🍝
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 15 min
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
For the Pasta Salad
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work best)
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2–3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
For the Creamy Garlic Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp Dijon mustard or ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, shrimp, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh herbs.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate 30–60 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
Variations
- Low-carb/Keto: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan or feta before serving.
- Mediterranean twist: Add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
💡 Pro Tips
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
- Letting the salad chill helps the garlic flavor infuse the pasta.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
If you want, I can also give you a one-bowl meal version with creamy garlic shrimp pasta salad that’s keto-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
Do you want me to do that?
