Easy Lunch Shrimp Pasta Salad

Name: Easy Lunch Shrimp Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rapid Ideas

I love making this Easy Lunch Shrimp Pasta Salad when I want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender shrimp with al dente pasta and fresh veggies makes for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any lunch. Plus, it’s so easy to toss together! I often find myself customizing the dressing and ingredients based on what I have on hand, which keeps the flavors exciting. This salad is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful choice to fuel my day.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:37:34.907Z

When I first decided to try my hand at making pasta salad, I didn’t think I could come up with something that packed in so much flavor. But after a few attempts, I nailed down this shrimp pasta salad recipe that has become a go-to for me. What's remarkable about this dish is how the shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor that beautifully complements the crunchy veggies and creamy dressing.

One of the best tips I can give is to let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes after making it. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, after trying this out, you won't want to go back to plain pasta salads!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful crunch from fresh vegetables balances perfectly with the tender shrimp.
Creamy dressing enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Quick to make, it's perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep.

Perfect Pasta Cooking

Cooking pasta to the ideal al dente texture is key for this salad. Aim to follow the package instructions closely, but keep a close eye on the pasta as it cooks. You'll want it to be tender while still offering a slight bite. Generally, this takes about 8-10 minutes, but checking a minute or two earlier can prevent overcooking. When you drain the pasta, rinsing it under cold water helps stop the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy in the salad.

For a twist on the typical pasta choices, try using whole wheat or gluten-free options. Not only does this add variety, but it also caters to different dietary needs. Just be aware that gluten-free pasta may require a slightly different cooking time, so always refer to the packaging for guidance.

Building Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the vegetables is crucial in this pasta salad. Each ingredient provides its unique crunch and flavor, from the juicy cherry tomatoes to the crisp cucumber. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand; diced bell peppers could easily be swapped for shredded carrots or snap peas for a different texture. Always remember to chop vegetables uniformly to ensure each bite is balanced in flavor and texture.

Using fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also contributes a vibrant herbaceous note that complements the creamy dressing. If you're out of parsley, dill or cilantro could serve as a suitable substitute, enhancing the salad with an exciting twist. I love how such small adjustments can create a completely different taste profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This shrimp pasta salad is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Ideally, you should let it chill for at least 30 minutes, but it can last for up to three days when properly stored. Just give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate any dressing that may have settled.

For a heartier option, consider serving this pasta salad on a bed of mixed greens or as a filling for pita breads. It can also be a delightful accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. To make it a bit more exciting, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of olives just before serving for extra flavor.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix together the ingredients for a quick and tasty salad!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and parsley.

Mix with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy this refreshing salad at lunch or as a side at dinner!

Pro Tips

Try adding some avocado or olives for extra flavor and nutrition.

Dressing Inspirations

The creamy dressing in this shrimp pasta salad serves as a rich complement to the vibrant ingredients. However, feel free to tweak it based on your preference. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or use a vinaigrette of olive oil and vinegar for a tangy kick. Just remember, a good dressing should enhance, not overpower, the dish's flavors.

Adding extra elements like minced garlic or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dressing further. Experimenting with these additions can lead to a different flavor profile each time you make it, which keeps this dish fresh and exciting.

A Quick Take on Shrimp

Using pre-cooked shrimp is a game-changer for this recipe, saving you valuable prep time. However, if you prefer to sauté your shrimp for added flavor, toss them in a little olive oil, garlic, and seasoning over medium heat until they’re pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. This not only adds depth but ensures they're juicy and tender within the salad.

If you're looking to switch up the protein, cooked chicken or even chickpeas can be excellent alternatives, making this salad versatile while still being quick to prepare.

Sensational Variations

This shrimp pasta salad is a baseline for endless creativity in the kitchen. To give it a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Each ingredient swap can lead to a whole new set of flavors that keep the dish exciting.

Additionally, if you're looking for a more substantial meal, adding nuts like walnuts or pine nuts can introduce a delightful crunch and extra protein. Just keep an eye on the balance of flavors; a few nuts go a long way!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding to the salad.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It can last up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-friendly option!