This Seafood Macaroni Salad with shrimp is a fun and tasty dish! It’s creamy, with a mix of pasta and fresh seafood that makes it light and festive—perfect for summer get-togethers.
What I love most is how quick it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, and you’ve got a dish that looks fancy but is super easy to make. Your friends will be asking for seconds! 🦐🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for macaroni salad! If you prefer, you can swap it for shells or fusilli for a fun twist.
Shrimp: I recommend using cooked shrimp for simplicity! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try substituting with chopped artichokes or chickpeas.
Frozen Peas: These add vibrant color and sweetness. You can easily replace them with diced bell peppers or green beans if desired.
Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand! For a lighter version, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute. It adds creaminess without the extra calories.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a lovely flavor. If you can’t find it, dried dill can work, but use only about a third of the amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Macaroni Stays Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the macaroni just right is key for great texture in your salad. You want it al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the macaroni.
- Cook according to package instructions, checking for doneness a minute before the time is up.
- Drain and immediately rinse the pasta under cold water. This halts the cooking and helps prevent it from getting mushy.
Don’t forget this step—it’s crucial for a great seafood macaroni salad!
Seafood Macaroni Salad with Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for mild spice and color
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Seafood Macaroni Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. A quick mix-up followed by a little waiting time makes it an easy dish to prepare for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm but not hard! Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside to cool and dry.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled macaroni, cooked shrimp, thawed peas, and chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing. It might look a little crowded, but don’t worry! It all comes together nicely.
4. Mix It Up:
Add the fresh dill and gently fold everything together, ensuring the macaroni and shrimp are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to break the shrimp apart—it’s all about keeping that nice texture!
5. Taste Test:
Now, take a moment to taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Your taste buds will thank you!
6. Chill Time:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This resting time helps all the flavors meld beautifully together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir. Sprinkle some extra fresh dill and optional red pepper flakes or paprika on top for a pop of color and flavor. It’s ready to wow your guests!
8. Enjoy Your Salad:
Serve your Seafood Macaroni Salad chilled and watch it disappear in no time! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a lovely weekend meal. Enjoy each bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like shells, fusilli, or rotini for a different texture and look.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just follow the recipe and refrigerate it. The flavors will enhance as it sits, making it even tastier!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the salad seems a bit dry after sitting, simply stir in a little more mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like diced bell peppers, celery, or even avocado for added flavor and nutrition. Just remember to keep the balance of creamy dressing intact!