The Ultimate Seafood Pasta Salad

 

The Ultimate Seafood Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Perfect for Any Occasion

Seafood pasta salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—light, refreshing, and packed with the delicate flavors of the ocean. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, this Ultimate Seafood Pasta Salad delivers on taste, texture, and visual appeal. Bursting with tender seafood, perfectly cooked pasta, and a zesty dressing, it’s a dish that satisfies every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Pasta Salad

This salad stands out because it’s:

• Flavor-packed: A combination of seafood, herbs, and a tangy dressing creates a burst of flavor in every bite.

• Refreshing and light: Perfectly balanced with fresh vegetables, it’s not too heavy for warm days.

• Versatile: Works as a main dish, a side, or even for potlucks and parties.

• Easy to prepare: Minimal cooking and simple ingredients make it accessible for any home cook.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup cooked crab meat or imitation crab, chopped

• ½ cup celery, diced

• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning for extra seafood flavor

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the seafood: If not already cooked, quickly sauté shrimp in a little olive oil until pink and opaque. Chop crab meat if needed.

3. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if using.

4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Serve: Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy chilled.

Tips for the Perfect Seafood Pasta Salad

• Choose fresh seafood: Fresh or high-quality frozen seafood makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

• Don’t overcook pasta: Pasta should be al dente to hold up in the salad without becoming mushy.

• Customize vegetables: Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for extra freshness.

• Make ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Why This Recipe Works

The Ultimate Seafood Pasta Salad is a winning combination of tender seafood, crisp vegetables, and a zesty, creamy dressing. It’s colorful, satisfying, and versatile, making it ideal for casual meals or entertaining. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors, from the briny sweetness of the seafood to the bright tang of the lemony dressing.

Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering, a family dinner, or a picnic, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy.