Shrimp Pasta Salad

Shrimp Pasta Salad

8 servings
This shrimp pasta salad with celery, red bell pepper, paprika, dill, and Chef John's special dressing is sure to become your favorite summer salad.

Ingredients

  • mayonnaise

    or more if needed

    1 ¼ c
  • dijon mustard
    2 tsp
  • ketchup
    2 tsp
  • worcestershire sauce
    ¼ tsp
  • salt
    1 tsp
  • cayenne pepper
    1 pinch
  • lemon

    juiced

    1
  • 3334326744 cup chopped fresh dill
    ⅓
  • package small pasta shells
    1
  • cooked

    peeled, and deveined small shrimp - cut in half

    1 lb
  • finely diced red bell pepper
    ½ c
  • diced celery
    ¾ c
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • paprika

    for garnish

    1 pinch
  • fresh dill

    or as desired

    3 sprigs

Directions

  1. 1

    Whisk 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl; add lemon juice and 1/3 cup chopped dill. Whisk until thoroughly combined; keep refrigerated.

  2. 2

    Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil and stir in pasta shells; cook until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool pasta slightly; drain again. Transfer to a large bowl.

  3. 3

    Toss shrimp with pasta; add red bell pepper, celery, and dressing to pasta mixture. Mix thoroughly to coat and fill shells with dressing. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, 2 to 3 hours.

  4. 4

    Stir salad again before serving and season to taste with more salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper if desired. If salad seems a little dry, mix in a little more mayonnaise. Garnish with paprika and sprigs of dill.

    Step 4
Shrimp Pasta Salad

Shrimp Pasta Salad

155 min8 servings451 cal

Similar Recipes

Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Now this is a 15 minute dinner I can get behind 👏🏼 Spicy Shrimp Pasta that’s better than any restaurant, promise.   48

0 servings
Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Alfredo

Easy Shrimp Alfredo recipe made with homemade Alfredo Sauce, fettuccine, and juicy Parmesan Coasted Shrimp. This is such a comforting family dinner and it’s ready in only 30 minutes.

30 minutes4 servings
Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Shrimp Pasta

This creamy shrimp pasta is a quick, elegant dish made with pantry staples and tender shrimp in a rich garlic-parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and feels like dining out—without the hassle.

25 minutes4 servings580 kcal
Tomato Shrimp Pasta

Tomato Shrimp Pasta

This Tomato Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and oh so satisfying weeknight dinner. If you've never made your own red sauce before, this simple recipe will knock your socks off!

30 minutes6 servings
Easy Shrimp Alfredo

Easy Shrimp Alfredo

This easy shrimp Alfredo pasta recipe is the perfect fast weeknight dinner that's tasty enough for company! Tender shrimp and fettuccine pasta are smothered in an amazing creamy garlic sauce.

30 minutes4 servings
Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with a spicy and rich cream sauce is a quick and easy dinner recipe with just the right amount of kick!

15 minutes6 servings
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This lemon garlic shrimp pasta features tender shrimp and a creamy but light sauce filled with bold garlic and citrus flavor.

25 minutes4 servings729 kcal
Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Shrimp scampi pasta is a delicious dish of tender shrimp in a garlicky white wine butter sauce with linguine pasta for a quick and impressive dinner.

40 minutes511 kcal

Ratings & Reviews

Be the First to Rate

Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!

About this Recipe

Looking for the ultimate summer lunch that's both refreshing and satisfying? This Shrimp Pasta Salad, featuring Chef John's unique dressing, is destined to become your go-to warm-weather favorite.

What truly sets this shrimp pasta salad apart is the perfectly balanced, creamy dressing. Crafted with a harmonious blend of Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh lemon juice, it creates a tangy and savory foundation. This special dressing expertly coats the tender shrimp and crisp vegetables, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

You'll discover a delightful medley of flavors and textures in every forkful. Expect succulent, cut-in-half small shrimp, perfectly cooked small pasta shells, and the refreshing crunch of finely diced red bell pepper and celery. The dressing brings a savory depth with a hint of cayenne spice, brightened by fresh dill and a garnish of paprika, offering a vibrant and fulfilling experience. It’s a wonderfully balanced dish, ideal for a sunny afternoon.

Feel free to adjust the pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat, or swap red bell pepper for a different color if you prefer. While fresh dill adds a signature aroma, you could experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley if you're looking to change the flavor profile slightly. Always taste and adjust the salt to your preference.

This Shrimp Pasta Salad shines as a perfect choice for a light lunch, a crowd-pleasing side dish at any picnic, or a refreshing addition to your next summer potluck. Serve it well-chilled to highlight its vibrant flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions