Description
A creamy seafood pasta salad loaded with tender shrimp, crab meat, crisp vegetables, and pasta tossed in a rich, flavorful dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a light lunch, combining the delicate flavors of seafood with a tangy, creamy dressing and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients
Seafood & Pasta
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup imitation crab meat or lump crab meat, chopped
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Creamy Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool completely.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped shrimp, chopped crab meat, diced celery, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh dill. Gently toss to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Toss with dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the seafood pasta mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the pasta and seafood are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the salad chill properly.
- Serve: After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss again. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or main course for your summer gatherings or lunch.
Notes
- Use lobster or scallops as a substitute for shrimp or crab for a more luxurious seafood flavor.
- This salad is best served chilled to enhance the creamy and fresh flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best quality.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
