Shrimp Macaroni Salad (Printable)
Creamy, refreshing salad combining shrimp, macaroni, vegetables, and tangy dressing.
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta & Seafood
01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
02 - 8 oz cooked, peeled shrimp
→ 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 Make:
01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Transfer to a large bowl and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth and well combined.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, shrimp, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped fresh herbs to the bowl with the prepared dressing.
04 - Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing. Cover bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- The combination of cold cooked shrimp with pasta creates this perfect texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting
- It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge, making it your best friend for meal prep and parties
02 -
- Rinse the pasta under cold water immediately after draining to stop it from becoming mushy
- The salad needs that chilling time or the flavors will taste separate and unfinished
03 -
- Cut all your vegetables slightly smaller than you think you should so every forkful gets everything
- Season your pasta water generously since the macaroni absorbs flavor while cooking