Are you searching for the perfect dish to enjoy on a warm summer day or to bring to your next gathering? Look no further than this delightful Seafood Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing. This refreshing and flavorful recipe combines tender seafood, al dente pasta, and a zesty dressing that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Italy. Let’s dive into creating this Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece!
**Seafood Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of mixed seafood (such as shrimp, calamari, and scallops)
– 8 ounces of pasta (like fusilli or penne)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Italian Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the mixed seafood and sauté until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the Italian dressing – olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to mix.
5. Add the cooked seafood into the bowl with the pasta and vegetables. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the mixture.
6. Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
Serve your Seafood Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing chilled or at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a picnic in the park, or a potluck gathering with friends and family. The combination of seafood, pasta, and tangy Italian dressing creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone wanting more. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own. Bon appétit!
