Recipe for Macaroni and Shrimp Salad That Impresses Everyone

Macaroni and shrimp salad is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the tender chewiness of macaroni pasta with the succulent, fresh flavors of shrimp. This salad is not only vibrant and refreshing but also versatile enough to serve as a satisfying main course or a side dish for your summer barbecues and family gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a picnic-friendly meal, or a potluck contribution, this recipe delivers on taste and texture with every bite.

The creamy dressing melds seamlessly with the crisp vegetables and plump shrimp, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Plus, it’s full of protein and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

Dive into this recipe and discover why macaroni and shrimp salad is a must-have in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni and shrimp salad is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors. It’s light yet filling, making it ideal for warm-weather meals or anytime you want a refreshing dish.

The shrimp adds a touch of elegance and protein, elevating a classic macaroni salad to something truly special.

Another great thing about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or add a little kick with some spices or hot sauce.

It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully after resting in the fridge.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 12 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling macaroni
• Colander or strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork (for mixing dressing)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Storage container with lid (for chilling)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the shrimp: If your shrimp isn’t cooked, sauté them in a skillet with a little olive oil until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Let cool. If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply thaw and pat dry.
3. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, add the cooled macaroni, cooked shrimp, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a storage container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad for a burst of color and freshness. Give the salad a final gentle toss.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For best results, use freshly cooked shrimp with good quality mayonnaise. Avoid overcooking the pasta to keep it firm and prevent a mushy salad.

You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for creaminess. If you enjoy a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce mixed into the dressing works wonderfully.

For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use a light mayonnaise. To make it more herbaceous, try adding dill or chives alongside parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni and shrimp salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect dish for summer cookouts. Serve it chilled alongside a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread for a complete meal.

It’s also ideal for picnics or as a hearty addition to your lunchbox. For a party, serve it in small cups or lettuce cups as an elegant appetizer.

Conclusion

This macaroni and shrimp salad is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare yet full of fresh, vibrant flavors. The combination of tender macaroni, succulent shrimp, and crunchy vegetables tossed in a creamy dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a casual family meal or contributing to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Try making this salad ahead of time to let the flavors meld and enjoy a refreshing, protein-packed dish anytime you like!

For more recipes that complement this dish, check out our Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, Classic Garlic Bread, and Fresh Garden Salad.

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