Shrimp Macaroni Salad

If you’re looking for a creamy, refreshing dish with a little seafood flair, this Shrimp Macaroni Salad is your new go-to recipe! It combines tender pasta, juicy shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a perfect side or light main dish. Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a casual family dinner, this salad brings comfort and coastal vibes in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cool & Refreshing – Perfect for warm weather or any time you want a chilled meal.
Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal prep time.
Balanced Texture – Creamy, chewy, and crunchy all in one.
Protein-Packed – Thanks to juicy shrimp, it’s satisfying and nutritious.
Great for Make-Ahead – Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
8 oz elbow macaroni (or small pasta of choice)
1 lb small cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
1 cup celery, finely chopped
¾ cup red bell pepper, diced
½ small red onion, finely chopped
½ cup cucumber, seeded and diced (optional for extra crunch)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

For the Creamy Dressing:
¾ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp sweet relish (adds a nice tang)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1-2 tbsp milk or water (to thin the dressing as needed)

Optional Garnishes:
Paprika for sprinkling
Extra chopped herbs
Lemon wedges on the side

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot for boiling pasta
Mixing bowls
Strainer or colander
Knife and cutting board
Spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
If using frozen cooked shrimp, thaw and pat dry.
Chop any large shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the rest.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, relish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add a splash of milk or water to reach desired creaminess.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, shrimp, celery, bell pepper, onion, cucumber, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Garnish with paprika, extra herbs, or lemon wedges just before serving.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Use Small Shrimp – They’re perfect for bite-sized portions and blend well with the pasta.
Cool Everything – Ensure pasta and shrimp are cold to avoid melting the dressing.
Add Veggies – Feel free to mix in peas, corn, or even avocado for a twist.
Make Ahead – Prepare up to a day in advance for the best flavor.
Balance the Creaminess – Adjust the dressing thickness with milk or water to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions
Serve as a light main dish with garlic bread or crackers.
Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a fuller meal.
Add to a summer picnic or BBQ spread.
Enjoy with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze – the dressing can separate and the texture will change.

Reheating:
Not recommended. This dish is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked?
   Yes, just boil or sauté them until pink and opaque, then cool before adding.
2. What type of pasta works best?
   Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells, ditalini, or rotini are great alternatives.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, just ensure the mayonnaise is dairy-free and skip the milk in the dressing.
4. Is it okay to make this the night before?
   Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after a night in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a winning combination of flavors, textures, and convenience. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re prepping for a summer BBQ or just want a chill lunch, this dish brings a delicious touch of the coast to your table.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 510mg

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