This Seafood Macaroni Salad with shrimp is a fun, colorful dish! It combines pasta, juicy shrimp, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing that makes every bite enjoyable.
Honestly, who can resist a bowl of this? I like to whip it up for picnics or summer gatherings—it’s always a hit! Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you can impress without too much work.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is a classic choice for macaroni salad. If you want a whole grain option, whole wheat elbow macaroni works great too. You can experiment with other shapes like shells or penne for a fun twist!
Shrimp: I recommend using cooked shrimp to save time. However, you can use other seafood like crab or lobster if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, you could replace shrimp with chickpeas for protein.
Green Peas: Fresh peas add a nice crunch, but frozen peas are super convenient and just as tasty! You can also substitute with diced bell peppers or corn for a different flavor and color.
Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap half of the mayo for Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess while giving a protein boost. You could also use vegan mayo for a dairy-free salad.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is key to a tasty seafood macaroni salad! A great balance of flavors makes all the difference. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a base of mayo and add a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This creates a creamy texture.
- Incorporate lemon juice to bring freshness and a bit of zing. It brightens the whole dish!
- Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick, while garlic powder enhances the overall flavor without being overpowering.
- Taste as you go! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or acidity if needed. A little personalization goes a long way.
Mix well to combine and ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated. Preparing the dressing first lets the flavors develop beautifully!
Seafood Macaroni Salad with Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Seafood:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
Veggies and Herbs:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Seafood Macaroni Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. So overall, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Peas:
If you’re using frozen green peas, just give them a quick blanch: boil them for about 1-2 minutes and then transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool down. If you’re using fresh peas, you can simply give them a rinse and they’re ready to go!
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. Adjust seasoning to your taste—maybe a bit more lemon or spice if you like!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooled macaroni, cooked shrimp, green peas, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley (or cilantro) into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until well combined and all the pasta and veggies are coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Serve Your Salad:
Transfer the seafood macaroni salad to a serving bowl. Give it a sprinkle of paprika on top for a nice pop of color and a hint of smokiness. This makes it even more appetizing!
6. Chill and Enjoy:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy the fresh and tasty seafood macaroni salad at your next meal or event!
This creamy, tangy, and savory seafood macaroni salad is perfect for summer lunches, potlucks, or light dinners! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can easily substitute with other pasta shapes like shells, fusilli, or penne. Just be sure to cook it al dente and rinse it under cold water to cool!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This seafood macaroni salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it, refrigerate it, and give it a good stir before serving. The flavors continue to develop overnight!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best taste and texture, make sure to consume them within that timeframe and give everything a good mix before serving again.
Can I Substitute the Shrimp?
Definitely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can use other seafood like canned crab, chopped lobster, or even diced cooked chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or chopped veggies like roasted bell peppers!
