Description

This Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic side dish. Loaded with tender shrimp, crisp veggies, and a tangy, seasoned dressing, it’s a refreshing yet hearty addition to any summer BBQ, picnic, or weeknight dinner. Light enough to serve as a side but satisfying enough to enjoy as a main.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

1 lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped if large)
8 oz elbow macaroni (cooked and cooled)
½ cup celery (finely chopped)
½ cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (chopped)

For the Creamy Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika + celery salt)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
1 small cucumber (diced, seeds removed)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool quickly. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

If using fresh shrimp, boil or sauté until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
If using pre-cooked shrimp, thaw and pat dry.
Chop larger shrimp into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust flavors to your liking.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and herbs.
Pour dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled, garnished with extra parsley or paprika if desired.

Notes

Rinse Pasta – Helps cool it down and prevents sticking.
Use Small Shrimp – Bite-sized pieces work best for texture and ease.
Adjust Creaminess – Add more mayo or yogurt if you like a creamier salad.
Chill for Flavor – An hour in the fridge enhances taste and texture.
Balance the Acidity – Taste and tweak lemon juice or mustard if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American