Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Looking for a refreshing, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches? This Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying classic. It combines tender shrimp, elbow macaroni, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, herbed dressing for a well-balanced and delicious bite every time. Serve it cold and enjoy the cool, coastal vibes in every forkful.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cool & Creamy – A chilled salad that’s refreshing and light.
Quick & Easy – Done in under 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.
Great for Meal Prep – Keeps well in the fridge for easy lunches or side dishes.
Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for BBQs, parties, and warm-weather gatherings.
Balanced & Satisfying – With protein from shrimp and crunch from fresh veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb cooked shrimp (small or medium, peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

For the Dressing:
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp sugar or honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:
• ½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 1 boiled egg, chopped
• A dash of hot sauce for heat
• Chopped dill or tarragon for extra herb flavor

Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork for dressing
• Spatula or large spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly and stop the cooking.
4. Set aside to drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Prep the Shrimp

1. If your shrimp is raw, quickly sauté or boil it until just pink and opaque, then cool it in an ice bath.
2. If already cooked, just chop if needed and chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, shrimp, celery, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and cherry tomatoes (if using).
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. If adding peas, chopped eggs, or fresh herbs, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
2. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and sprinkle with extra parsley or a dash of paprika for garnish.
3. Serve cold and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad
Cook Pasta Just Right – Don’t overcook; al dente pasta holds its shape better when chilled.
Chill Everything – Cold ingredients help the salad stay fresh and crisp.
Use Small Shrimp – Bite-sized shrimp make the salad easier to eat.
Let It Sit – A brief chill enhances flavor and texture.
Balance the Creaminess – Adjust with extra yogurt or a splash of milk if the salad gets too thick after chilling.

Serving Suggestions
• Summer BBQ – A great side for grilled chicken, beef, or veggie burgers.
• Light Lunch – Serve with crackers, a green salad, or fruit on the side.
• Meal Prep – Pack in individual containers for easy weekday lunches.
• Potluck Favorite – Easily doubled and travels well in a cooler.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Avoid Freezing: Mayo-based dressings do not freeze well and can separate when thawed.

Make Ahead:
Make it the night before and refrigerate overnight. Stir before serving, and adjust seasoning or creaminess if needed with a splash of lemon juice or extra yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned or frozen shrimp?
Yes. For canned, drain well. For frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before adding.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—use dairy-free yogurt or skip it and use all mayo or a plant-based alternative.

3. What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise?
Try a combo of Greek yogurt and avocado or a store-bought mayo alternative.

4. Can I add pasta water to the dressing?
No need—just make sure the pasta is well-drained. If you want a looser dressing, use milk or lemon juice instead.

Final Thoughts
Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a cool, creamy dish that combines comfort and flavor with minimal effort. It’s a classic with a twist—tender shrimp adding a coastal flair to a beloved picnic staple. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or chilled lunches, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.

Try it for your next gathering or meal prep session and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to tag us or leave a review—we love seeing your creations.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 540mg

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