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healthy cold shrimp pasta salad recipe

Healthy Cold Shrimp Pasta Salad

Avatar photoMarla Jennings
A refreshing and light shrimp pasta salad perfect for summer lunches and meal prep.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot for boiling pasta and shrimp
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Strainer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • In the same pot used for pasta, bring water to a boil again. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Transfer immediately to an ice bath.
  • While the shrimp is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shrimp, chopped vegetables, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Serve the salad chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired. It's perfect as a main dish or a side.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try basil or dill instead of parsley.
How to Serve: Serve chilled.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare a day in advance for best flavor infusion.
Keyword cold pasta salad, healthy seafood salad, shrimp pasta salad