Shrimp Macaroni Salad (Printable)

Creamy shrimp and macaroni combined with crisp vegetables in a tangy dressing, ideal for warm weather dining.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Seafood

01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
02 - 8 oz cooked, peeled shrimp, small or chopped if large

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup celery, finely diced
04 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
05 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped

→ Dressing

07 - 2/3 cup mayonnaise
08 - 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# How To Make It:

01 - Prepare elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, cooked shrimp, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh dill or parsley to the bowl with the prepared dressing.
04 - Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing, being careful not to break up the shrimp or pasta.
05 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Cool and creamy without feeling heavy, even on the most humid summer days
  • Make ahead friendly, meaning less stress when guests arrive
  • The contrast of crisp vegetables against tender shrimp keeps every bite interesting
02 -
  • Hot pasta will make your dressing separate and turn oily—let it cool completely before combining
  • The salad will seem dry right after mixing but will become creamy as it chills and pasta absorbs dressing
  • Overchilling can dull flavors—remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving
03 -
  • Pat shrimp dry with paper towels before adding to prevent dressing from becoming watery
  • Use room-temperature ingredients to help dressing coat pasta evenly
  • Toast a teaspoon of Old Bay into the mayonnaise for a lowcountry twist

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