Seafood Pasta Salad 🍝
A creamy, refreshing pasta salad loaded with tender shrimp, imitation crab, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch!
🛒 Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
½ lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
½ lb imitation crab meat, chopped
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Directions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Seafood
If starting with raw shrimp, boil for 2–3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Dice the imitation crab.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning (if using), and salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta, shrimp, crab, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
5️⃣ Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
6️⃣ Serve
Stir before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy cold!