As summer approaches, the thought of whipping up a refreshing and light meal becomes more appealing. Enter: shrimp pasta salad! This classic combination never goes out of style, especially when paired with the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and rich or zesty and bold, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 scrumptious shrimp pasta salad recipes that are sure to become your go-to summer staple. From Mediterranean-inspired creations to spicy Cajun twists, each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the star of the show: succulent and flavorful shrimp. So grab a fork and dive in – your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad combines succulent shrimp with al dente pasta, tangy cream sauce, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy garlic sauce, then add cooked shrimp and toss gently.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent shrimp with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper; toss to combine.
5. Stir in cherry tomatoes and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Salad
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad with this Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta Salad recipe! A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp. hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Pour mixture over cooked shrimp and stir to combine.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Shrimp Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing Avocado Lime Shrimp Pasta Salad recipe! A perfect combination of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and succulent shrimp, all on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of choice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chilled
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine avocado, shrimp, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with juicy tomatoes and crunchy feta cheese, all wrapped up in a zesty lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink and fully cooked; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and tomato mixture.
5. Stir in feta cheese, parsley, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Shrimp Pasta Salad
Thai Peanut Shrimp Pasta Salad: A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this dish combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a classic pasta salad.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and ginger over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp mixture, cilantro, bell pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Shrimp Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of shrimp, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to coat.
5. Add cooked shrimp and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Shrimp Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Caprese-inspired dish combines the flavors of Italy with succulent shrimp and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
4. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Shrimp Pasta Salad
A creamy, savory, and indulgent pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of shrimp and the tanginess of ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp in a little oil until pink and cooked through; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy; remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and crumbled bacon.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and lemon juice; pour over pasta mixture.
6. Toss to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Italian Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent shrimp with a zesty Italian dressing, cherry tomatoes, and crispy basil for a flavorful and light meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cooked pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tropical Mango Shrimp Pasta Salad
A sweet and savory twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with juicy mango and crunchy veggies for a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, juiced
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mango, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, ginger, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro creates a delicious and healthy dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooked shrimp, lime juice, and cilantro. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of succulent shrimp, all tied together with a flavorful mix of vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked shrimp
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked shrimp, Greek yogurt, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sriracha Honey Shrimp Pasta Salad
This sweet and spicy pasta salad is a perfect combination of flavors, featuring succulent shrimp, tangy Sriracha sauce, and the warmth of honey. A great dish for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. Sriracha sauce
– 1 tbsp. honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp with garlic until pink and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce and honey.
4. Add the Sriracha-honey mixture to the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines succulent shrimp with roasted red peppers, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 red bell peppers, roasted (see notes)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp with olive oil until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red peppers, shrimp, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent shrimp with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, white wine vinegar, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Coconut Shrimp Pasta Salad
This flavorful pasta salad combines succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic curry powder with tender pasta and fresh vegetables for a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz.) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together curry powder and coconut milk.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro in a large bowl. Pour curry-coconut mixture over the top and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chimichurri Shrimp Pasta Salad
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad, featuring succulent shrimp and a tangy chimichurri sauce!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, combine parsley, oregano, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the chimichurri sauce.
5. Toss cooked pasta with chimichurri sauce, cherry tomatoes, and shrimp.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Shrimp Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent shrimp with a tangy balsamic glaze, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the crunch of fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the glaze over the shrimp and toss to coat.
6. Combine cooked pasta, glazed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and parsley in a large bowl; toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Salad
Quickly assemble a flavorful and refreshing pasta salad featuring succulent shrimp, tangy garlic butter sauce, and al dente pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow-tie, penne, or linguine)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce, lemon zest, and cooked shrimp. Season to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Summer just got a whole lot more delicious with these 20 mouth-watering shrimp pasta salad recipes! From classic combinations to bold and adventurous flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy garlic or spicy Cajun, or opt for lighter options like lemon herb or Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With a variety of sauces, herbs, and spices to choose from, you’ll be hooked on these shrimp pasta salads all summer long. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping side dish, this collection has got you covered.
