Southern Shrimp Pasta Salad

Southern Shrimp Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

If you’re searching for a refreshing dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your table, look no further than this Southern Shrimp Salad. Perfect for warm summer days, weekend potlucks, or even a light weekday lunch, this recipe combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a luscious creamy dressing for a satisfying yet simple meal.

One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. Not only is it a great way to showcase fresh shrimp, but the small shell pasta also helps soak up all the rich flavors of the dressing. This combination creates a perfectly balanced bite every time. Moreover, the crunch from the diced celery and bell peppers adds texture, while the tangy dressing brings it all together.

Another reason this recipe is a must-try? It’s incredibly easy to prepare. You can cook the pasta and prep the shrimp in advance, making it an excellent option for busy days when you still want something homemade and delicious. Plus, the flavors get even better after chilling, which means you can make it the night before and let it work its magic in the fridge.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply craving something flavorful, this Southern Shrimp Salad is sure to please. In addition, its simple ingredients and quick preparation time mean you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.

So, why not give it a try today? With every creamy, tangy, and slightly zesty bite, you’ll see why this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own—the choice is yours!

This salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of bold, fresh flavors with a Southern twist.

Recipe Yield: 8 servings

INGREDIENTS
16 oz small shell pasta
1 ½ lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces if large)
¾ cup red onion (finely chopped)
1 ¼ cups celery (diced)
1 ¼ cups bell peppers (diced, mix of red and green for vibrant color)
⅓ cup sour cream
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 cup mayonnaise
3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 ½ tsp garlic powder
¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¾ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
1 tsp paprika
4 tbsp fresh chives (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional, for a Southern flair)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the pasta: Boil the small shell pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the shrimp: If the shrimp are large, slice them into bite-sized pieces for better distribution. Pat the shrimp dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
3. Chop the vegetables: Dice the celery, bell peppers, and red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
4. Mix the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional Old Bay seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Combine the salad: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer and creamier salad.
7. Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chives for a bright finish. Serve as a side dish or light main course.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Fresh Ingredients for the Best Flavor:
  Freshly cooked shrimp, crisp vegetables, and freshly squeezed lemon juice are essential for making this Southern Shrimp Pasta Salad taste its absolute best. While frozen or pre-cooked options work, fresh ingredients enhance the salad’s flavor and texture significantly.
• Chill for Flavors to Meld:
  Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This resting time allows the dressing to absorb into the pasta and shrimp, resulting in a perfectly creamy, well-seasoned dish. For a quick option, prepare the salad the night before for even better flavor!
• Season to Taste Before Serving:
  Once the salad has chilled, give it a quick taste test and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Sometimes, pasta absorbs the dressing, so adding a touch of lemon juice, mayonnaise, or spices right before serving can refresh the dish beautifully.