Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Seafood Pasta Salad with Shrimp and Crab Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 6 reviews

This refreshing Seafood Salad combines tender shrimp, imitation crab meat, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet relish. Enhanced with the classic seasoning of Old Bay, along with crunchy celery, red bell pepper, and red onion, this salad is chilled to meld flavors and served cold, making it an ideal dish for warm weather gatherings or light meals.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound pasta of choice (bow tie or rotini recommended)

Shrimp

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails off (21/25 count)
  • 1¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (divided)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salad Dressing and Mix-ins

  • 2 cups Mayonnaise (use Hellmann’s for best results)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 stalks celery, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • ½ medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 8 ounces imitation crab meat, coarsely chopped (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and spread it out to cool completely before assembling the salad.
  2. Season the shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning and garlic powder. Toss the shrimp so that they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
  3. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. When the butter is melted and hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the shrimp are turning pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer to a plate to cool completely.
  4. Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to form a smooth, creamy dressing.
  5. Combine the salad: Add the diced celery, chopped red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, cooked and cooled pasta, and cooled shrimp to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Then fold in the coarsely chopped imitation crab meat carefully so as not to break it down too much. Season the entire salad with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning and mix lightly.
  6. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the seafood salad for at least 1 hour and up to overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become refreshingly cool for serving.

Notes

  • Use Hellmann’s mayonnaise for the authentic creamy texture and flavor in the dressing.
  • Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
  • You can prepare the salad a day ahead to allow the flavors to deepen.
  • Feel free to substitute the imitation crab meat with cooked real crab meat for a more luxurious version.
  • Serve chilled for the best refreshing taste, perfect for summer meals or potlucks.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/seafood-pasta-salad-with-shrimp-and-crab-recipe/