Creamy Shrimp Pasta Salad with Cucumbers, Cherry Tomatoes, Corn, and Herb Dressing (Easy Refreshing Summer Meal)

Prep Time: 20 minutes   |   Cook Time: 10 minutes   |   Total Time: 30 minutes   |   Servings: 4–6

Introduction

Shrimp pasta salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and crisp vegetables in a creamy herb dressing. This easy summer meal is packed with bright flavors and colorful ingredients like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sweet corn, making every bite fresh and balanced. The creamy dressing lightly coats the pasta and shrimp without feeling heavy, creating the perfect dish for warm-weather lunches, picnics, or meal prep. For the best flavor, chill the salad before serving so the ingredients fully absorb the dressing.

Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta (340 g)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (450 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
• 1 cucumber, diced (200 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1 cup corn kernels (150 g)
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped (40 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (10 g)

For the Herb Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (80 ml)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
2. Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, finely chop red onion, and prepare corn and herbs.
4. Make the dressing: In a large bowl whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Combine the salad: Add cooled pasta, shrimp, cucumber, tomatoes, corn, red onion, and herbs into the bowl.
6. Toss gently: Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
7. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
8. Serve: Toss lightly before serving and garnish with extra herbs if desired.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: How do I keep pasta salad creamy?
Add a little extra dressing before serving if the pasta absorbs too much.

Q3: Can shrimp pasta salad be made ahead?
Yes, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

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