Shrimp Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing
Fresh, zesty, and irresistibly creamy, this Shrimp Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing is the perfect light and refreshing meal! Tender shrimp and al dente pasta are tossed in a bright, tangy lemon dressing with a smooth, creamy finish, creating the ultimate balance of flavor.
Ingredients
- For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- For the Creamy Lemon Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook Pasta : Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Step 2: Cook Shrimp : Season shrimp with salt and pepper and cook in a skillet with olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Step 3: Prepare Dressing : Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients : In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, vegetables, and parsley.
- Step 5: Toss Salad : Add dressing and toss gently to coat evenly. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.