Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad

Here’s a fresh and flavorful recipe for an AMAZING Shrimp Pasta Salad — creamy, zesty, and packed with tender shrimp!

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Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6–8

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Ingredients:

• 8 oz small pasta (like rotini, macaroni, or shells)
• 1 pound cooked shrimp (small or chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, diced (optional)
• ¾ cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt for lighter)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prep the Shrimp:
   • If using raw shrimp, boil them for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque, then chill.
   • If using pre-cooked shrimp, make sure they’re thawed and patted dry.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Everything:
   • Add pasta, shrimp, celery, red onion, tomatoes, and cucumber to the bowl.
   • Gently toss to coat evenly with dressing.
5. Chill:
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
6. Serve:
   • Before serving, give it a good stir and sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top.

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Tips:

• Small pasta shapes work best so you get a little pasta and shrimp in every bite.
• Old Bay seasoning adds a classic seafood flavor, but you can use paprika if you prefer a milder taste.
• Want it extra creamy? Add a little splash of milk or more mayo just before serving if it looks dry.