The BEST Seafood Pasta Salad 🦐🍝🍋
Bright, creamy, and loaded with tender shrimp and crab.
Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic or just need a refreshing no-fuss dinner, this Seafood Pasta Salad is always a hit. It’s tossed in a zesty lemon-mayo dressing with just the right kick of Dijon and dill. The balance of sweet crab, briny shrimp, and crisp veggies makes every bite a cool breeze of flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Takes just 30 minutes from start to fridge
- Bright and refreshing—perfect for warm weather
- Works as a side or main dish
- Totally customizable: use what seafood you have on hand
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, crab meat, celery, tomatoes, and red onion. Toss gently.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Toss It All Together
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Add the fresh dill and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve cold with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta—you want it firm enough to hold the dressing without getting mushy.
- Use pre-cooked shrimp and crab for quick assembly (just drain well).
- Add more lemon juice or dill if you love extra brightness.
- Want more texture? Toss in diced cucumber, bell peppers, or even cooked peas.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
Pair this salad with a drink or side that complements its cool, citrusy flair:
- Blueberry Lemonade to sip in the sunshine
- Light Tangy Chicken Salad for a duo of light proteins
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage for a warm Southern pairing
- Easy Turkey Wings for comfort on the side
- End with Edible Cookie Dough for a cold and creamy dessert
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Not ideal for freezing—the mayo-based dressing can separate
- Stir before serving if stored for more than a day
More Recipes You’ll Love
- A Light Tangy Chicken Salad
- This Blueberry Lemonade
- These Easy Turkey Wings
- This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- This Edible Cookie Dough
Final Thoughts
This Seafood Pasta Salad is everything a cold salad should be—creamy, light, packed with flavor, and beyond easy. It’s a total winner for cookouts, lunch prep, or beach-day picnics. Make it once, and you’ll come back all summer long.
If you try it, tag @ChefManiac—we’d love to see your seafood creations! 🦐🍝🍋
