Shrimp Macaroni Salad Creamy (Printable View)
Creamy shrimp and pasta salad with crisp vegetables in zesty dressing
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta & Seafood
01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
02 - 8 oz cooked, peeled shrimp, small or chopped if large
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 cup celery, finely diced
04 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
05 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
→ Dressing
07 - 2/3 cup mayonnaise
08 - 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste
# How to Prepare:
01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking process. Transfer to a large bowl and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, cooked shrimp, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh herbs to the dressing bowl.
04 - Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated with the creamy dressing, being careful not to break up the shrimp.
05 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Everything comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you fussed over it for hours
- The dressing strikes that perfect balance between creamy and refreshing that keeps people coming back for seconds
02 -
- Overcooked pasta will turn mushy after chilling so err on the side of slightly underdone
- The salad tastes best after resting at least an hour but dont let it sit longer than 24 hours
03 -
- Pat the shrimp dry before adding them so the dressing doesnt become watery
- Taste the salad before serving since cold food dulls flavors