Seafood Pasta Salad Delight

Light, Zesty & Loaded with Shrimp, Crab, and Herbs

This Seafood Pasta Salad Delight is a refreshing, creamy pasta salad that layers tender rotini or penne pasta with plump shrimp, flaky crab meat, crisp celery, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a zesty lemon-mayo dressing with Dijon mustard and fresh dill—it’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch on the go.

A chilled seafood sensation that’s easy to love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🍤 Sweet Seafood Base: Shrimp and crab bring delicate brininess and texture without overpowering the dish.
• 🥒 Fresh Veggie Crunch: Celery and red onion add crisp contrast, while cherry tomatoes burst with brightness.
• 🧈 Creamy Lemon Dressing: A silky mayonnaise-based sauce with citrus and spice—simple yet bold.
• ⏱️ No-Cook Assembly: From fridge to bowl in under 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute cravings.
• 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family dinners, outdoor parties, or as a make-ahead lunch.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Pasta & Seafood Mix:

• 8 oz rotini, penne, or shell pasta (or gluten-free pasta for sensitive diets)
• 1 cup cooked shrimp , peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen cooked shrimp – thawed if needed)
• ½ cup crab meat , flaked (or imitation crab for budget-friendly version)
• ½ cup chopped celery (for crunch and freshness)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes , halved (or grape tomatoes for sweeter notes)
• ¼ cup red onion , finely diced (or shallots for milder bite)
• Chopped fresh dill , for garnish (or parsley for shortcut – dill adds authentic flair)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or lime for variation – bottled works in a pinch)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or whole-grain mustard for texture)
• Salt and black pepper , to taste
• Optional: Celery salt or Old Bay seasoning for extra seafood flair

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Extra dill or chives
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil and cook:

• Pasta of choice until al dente (8–10 minutes ).

Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Let cool completely before adding to the salad.

Step 2: Prep the Seafood & Veggies

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cooked pasta
• Shrimp
• Crab meat
• Celery, cherry tomatoes, and red onion

Toss gently to mix—avoid crushing the seafood.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk:

• Mayo
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• A pinch of salt and pepper

until smooth and well blended.

Tip: For extra flavor, stir in ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce .

Step 4: Combine & Chill

Pour dressing over the pasta-seafood mixture.

Sprinkle in chopped dill and toss again until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop.

Step 5: Serve Chilled & Refreshing

Divide into bowls or serve straight from the dish.

Garnish with:

• Extra lemon wedges
• Fresh herbs or chili flakes
• Or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch

Each bite brings together:

• Silky, chilled pasta pockets
• Sweet, tender shrimp and crab bites
• Crisp, colorful veggie bursts
• Tangy, lemon-kissed creamy finish
• And that classic herb-dressed charm

Tips for Success:

• 🥣 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape and press seafood without sticking.
• 🧁 Don’t Overcook Pasta: Rinse with cold water to prevent mushiness.
• 🥟 Seafood Swap Magic: Try smoked salmon, tuna, or imitation crab for different finishes.
• 🧄 Fresh Dill Hack: Enhances flavor dramatically—skip dried versions for best aroma.
• ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Store in fridge overnight—flavors intensify beautifully.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with grilled chicken skewers, crusty bread, or a green salad for full meal mode.
• Great with white wine, iced tea, or a cold glass of sparkling water with mint.
• Ideal for picnics, office lunches, or solo indulgence .

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 – approximate):

(With regular mayo and seafood – per plate)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: ~12g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Fat: ~17g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~4g

This Seafood Pasta Salad Delight proves that salads don’t need greens to be unforgettable. With its creamy base, sweet seafood, and zesty finish—it’s a must-chill for lovers of bold, comforting handhelds.

Additional Notes:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use GF pasta and ensure all sauces are GF-certified.
• Vegan Swap: Replace seafood with hearts of palm, artichoke hearts, or marinated tofu.
• Storage Tip: Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days—add extra lemon juice before serving.
• Flavor Hack: Add capers, pickles, or avocado slices for gourmet flair.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make double and pack into individual containers for quick lunches.

Pro Tip: For extra crunch , add chopped cucumber or bell peppers to the salad.
Serving Idea: Layer over lettuce wraps, avocado halves, or toast rounds for creative presentation.
History Fun: Pasta salads have roots in American picnic culture—this version gives them a modern seafood twist perfect for coastal comfort cravings.

Optional Variations:

Final Serving Touches:

• Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze
• Top with microgreens, edible flowers, or toasted pine nuts
• Serve with garlic bread or lemon aioli dip
• Pair with chilled white wine or lemon-infused water

This pasta salad isn’t just a side—it’s a celebration of ocean-to-table joy wrapped in citrus, cream, and herb-infused delight. So take a bite, close your eyes, and savor every refreshing, creamy moment.