Zesty Summer Shrimp Pasta Salad
Fresh and vibrant, this Zesty Summer Shrimp Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic seafood dish! Bursting with flavors from marinated shrimp, crisp celery, and aromatic green onions, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings. Creamy mayonnaise combined with tangy lemon juice and zesty Italian dressing create the perfect coat for tender angel hair pasta. It's a crowd-pleaser that will have your friends and family asking for seconds – or even the recipe! Serve chilled for a refreshing, filling meal on a warm day, ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a nice dinner at home.
7
Servings
51
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked small shrimp
1 lb (rinsed and drained)
green onion
1 bunch (finely chopped)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
lemon pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
celery
1 1/2 cups (chopped)
Italian salad dressing
1 cup
mayonnaise
3/4 cup
lemon juice
1/4 cup (or more to taste)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
angel hair pasta
8-10 ounces
Instructions
1
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, chopped green onions, chopped celery, salt, and lemon pepper. Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
2
Meanwhile, cook the angel hair pasta in a pot of boiling water with a dollop of cooking oil, according to package instructions, until al dente (approximately 3 to 4 minutes).
3
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4
In the large bowl with the marinated shrimp and vegetables, combine the rinsed pasta, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
5
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad, reserving some for garnish.
6
Toss the salad gently, and if desired, add more lemon juice and cheese to taste.
7
Serve chilled, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, and enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer!
Nutrition Information
2.6g
Fat
4.6g
Carbs
3.1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Summer Shrimp Pasta Salad?
It is a fresh and vibrant seafood dish featuring marinated shrimp, crisp celery, aromatic green onions, and tender angel hair pasta in a creamy lemon-Italian dressing.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 7 servings.
What type of pasta is best for this salad?
The recipe calls for 8 to 10 ounces of angel hair pasta.
How long should the shrimp marinate?
The shrimp and vegetables should marinate in the Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
What kind of shrimp should I use?
The recipe requires 1 lb of cooked small shrimp that have been rinsed and drained.
What makes the dressing 'zesty'?
The zest comes from a combination of 1 cup of Italian salad dressing, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of lemon pepper.
Is this pasta salad served hot or cold?
This dish is served chilled, making it ideal for warm summer days.
How long does it take to cook the pasta?
The angel hair pasta should be cooked until al dente, which typically takes approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
What vegetables are included in the salad?
The salad includes 1 1/2 cups of chopped celery and 1 bunch of finely chopped green onions.
How much mayonnaise is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of mayonnaise to help create a creamy coating.
Is there cheese in this pasta salad?
Yes, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is added to the salad, with some reserved for garnish.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 51 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 2.6g of fat in each serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
This recipe provides 3.1g of protein per serving.
What are the carbohydrate counts for a serving?
There are 4.6g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I add more lemon juice?
Yes, you can add more than the initial 1/4 cup of lemon juice to reach your desired taste.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
Yes, the instructions state to drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The salad is seasoned with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of lemon pepper.
Is this considered a main course?
Yes, the recipe is categorized as a 'One Dish Meal'.
How do I prepare the green onions?
One bunch of green onions should be finely chopped before being added to the mix.
Can this recipe be served at potlucks?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as ideal for potlucks, picnics, or casual dinners.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the shrimp, onions, celery, and seasonings in a bowl and marinate them in Italian dressing.
Do I need to add anything to the pasta water?
The recipe suggests adding a dollop of cooking oil to the pot of boiling water.
How should I toss the salad?
Toss the salad gently after adding the Parmesan cheese to ensure all ingredients are combined without breaking the delicate pasta.
What is the preparation for the celery?
The celery should be chopped to provide a crisp texture to the salad.
Is there any fiber or sugar in this recipe?
Fiber and sugar content are not specified in the nutritional data provided.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include seafood salad, shrimp pasta salad, summer recipes, potluck dish, and easy recipes.
Can I use freshly squeezed lemon juice?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/4 cup of lemon juice and fresh juice is generally preferred for a better flavor.
How is the salad garnished?
It is garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Can I substitute the angel hair pasta?
While the recipe specifies angel hair, you could use other thin pasta types, but the texture may change.