Cold Shrimp And Crab Pasta Salad Recipes
When it comes to easy-to-prepare yet tasty dishes, pasta salads are definitely on top of the list. And if you're looking for a refreshing and satisfying meal to serve during hot summer days or any occasion, cold shrimp and crab pasta salad is an excellent choice. This dish is not only filling, but it's also packed with protein and essential nutrients that your body needs. In this article, we'll share some mouthwatering cold shrimp and crab pasta salad recipes that you can prepare at home.
Classic Cold Shrimp and Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
This classic cold shrimp and crab pasta salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for any occasion. Here are the ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked and peeled shrimp
- 1 pound cooked crabmeat
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool down. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until well-combined.
- Add the cooked and peeled shrimp and crabmeat to the mixing bowl and toss gently with the dressing until fully coated.
- Add the cooled elbow macaroni, chopped parsley, red onion, celery, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the bowl and toss until evenly combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to chill.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss before serving.
This classic cold shrimp and crab pasta salad recipe serves 8-10 people and is perfect for a potluck or family gathering.
Avocado Cold Shrimp and Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
If you're looking for a healthier version of cold shrimp and crab pasta salad, this avocado cold shrimp and crab pasta salad recipe is perfect for you. Here are the ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked and peeled shrimp
- 1 pound cooked crabmeat
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool down. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until well-combined.
- Add the cooked and peeled shrimp and crabmeat to the mixing bowl and toss gently with the dressing until fully coated.
- Add the cooled elbow macaroni, diced avocado, chopped red onion, celery, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the bowl and toss until evenly combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to chill.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss before serving.
This avocado cold shrimp and crab pasta salad recipe serves 8-10 people and is perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake.
Tips for Making the Best Cold Shrimp and Crab Pasta Salad
If you're new to making cold shrimp and crab pasta salad or if you want to take your dish to the next level, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients. The quality and freshness of the ingredients you use can make a huge difference in the taste and texture of the salad.
- Don't overcook the shrimp and crabmeat. Overcooked seafood can become tough and rubbery, which can ruin the texture of the salad. Cook the seafood just until it's pink and opaque.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the dish more refreshing.
- Add some crunch. Adding chopped vegetables like celery, bell peppers, onions, and carrots can not only add more nutrients to the dish but also provide some crunch to balance the softness of the pasta and seafood.
- Experiment with dressings. While mayonnaise-based dressings are traditional, you can also use vinaigrettes or yogurt-based dressings for a lighter and tangier flavor.
With these tips in mind and the recipes we shared, you can now make the best cold shrimp and crab pasta salad that your family and friends will surely love.