Picture yourself enjoying a relaxed summer afternoon in the backyard, savoring the flavors of a light and refreshing dish that captures the essence of the season. Our Cold Shrimp and Pasta Salad recipe is the perfect combination of succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and crisp, colorful vegetables, all brought together with a zesty dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a wholesome meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Cold Shrimp and Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 3 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the water and place them in a bowl of ice water to cool quickly. Once cooled, pat them dry with paper towels and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
This vibrant Cold Shrimp and Pasta Salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or a satisfying main course. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease with which you can customize it to suit your preferences. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as olives, feta cheese, or avocado to elevate the dish further.
Remember that presentation plays an important role in enhancing the dining experience, so consider serving this salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a potluck, or simply a cozy meal at home, this Cold Shrimp and Pasta Salad is sure to brighten any occasion with its vibrant colors and delightful flavors.
