Seafood Pasta Salad

This Coastal Breeze Seafood Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of tender pasta and fresh seafood, tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing that brightens every bite. The vibrant colors from the bell peppers, celery, and green onions create a visually appealing dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ideal for warm weather meals, this salad is light yet satisfying, offering the perfect balance of protein and freshness. It’s an effortless dish that can elevate any casual gathering, picnic, or weeknight dinner with coastal flavors and a refreshing twist.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 cup chopped celery

• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped

• 1/2 cup cooked crab meat, shredded

• 1/2 cup cooked scallops, chopped

Directions:

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain again thoroughly.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until smooth.

3. Add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, and green onions to the dressing; stir to combine.

4. Fold in the cooled pasta along with the cooked shrimp, crab meat, and scallops until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

6. Serve chilled, garnished with extra green onions or paprika if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Seafood pasta salads

Are a delightful way to enjoy the best of the sea combined with the comforting texture of pasta, and the Coastal Breeze Seafood Pasta Salad is a prime example. This dish beautifully marries tender rotini pasta with a mix of succulent shrimp, crab, and scallops, all dressed in a creamy yet tangy lemon-mayo dressing that brightens the entire plate. The balance of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible choice for warm-weather dining, casual get-togethers, and even more formal occasions.

Flavor Profile and Texture

The charm of this seafood pasta salad lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The seafood provides a naturally sweet and briny taste that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy mayonnaise base. The addition of fresh lemon juice injects a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing lift. A subtle hint of Dijon mustard gives it a gentle tang, while spices like paprika and garlic powder add depth and warmth.

Texturally, the rotini pasta offers a pleasing bite, firm enough to hold its shape but tender enough to meld with the dressing. Crunchy elements such as chopped celery and red bell peppers bring a crisp freshness, balancing the softness of the seafood and pasta. The green onions add a mild sharpness, rounding out the salad’s complex mouthfeel.

Versatility for Every Occasion

One of the reasons the Coastal Breeze Seafood Pasta Salad stands out is its versatility. It’s equally suited for an easy weeknight dinner, a picnic, a potluck, or an elegant buffet. It holds up well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for meal prep or make-ahead meals. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld, and serve it chilled when ready.

Because it can be made ahead, it’s a favorite for summer barbecues and beach days, offering a cool and satisfying alternative to heavier, hot meals. At the same time, it’s dressy enough to serve at dinner parties or family celebrations, where the fresh seafood can impress guests with minimal fuss.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad delivers a good balance of macronutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. The seafood trio shrimp, crab, and scallop sis packed with high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Seafood also provides valuable omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function.

The use of fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers contributes fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. These nutrients support digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. The lemon juice adds vitamin C, enhancing the immune-boosting qualities of the dish.

While the mayonnaise base adds some fat, it also helps keep the dish satiating. For those watching calories or fat intake, substituting with light mayo or Greek yogurt is a great option to keep it creamy while reducing calories.

Tips for Preparation and Customization

Preparing this seafood pasta salad is straightforward, but there are a few tips to maximize flavor and texture:

• Seafood Quality: Use fresh or well-thawed seafood. Precooked shrimp and crab work well, but if you prefer, lightly sauté fresh scallops for a tender texture.

• Pasta: Cooking pasta al dente is crucial to avoid a mushy salad. Rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly.

• Dressing: Whisk dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency. Adjust lemon juice or seasoning to taste for a brighter or more savory flavor.

• Chilling: Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving. This resting time lets the flavors develop and marry beautifully.

• Add-Ins: Feel free to incorporate other fresh ingredients like diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to enhance flavor complexity.

• Dietary Adaptations: To keep it lighter, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a stand-alone dish for lunch or dinner but also pairs beautifully with light sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal.

It’s also a fantastic potluck dish because it travels well and stays delicious even after several hours in a cooler or fridge.

Conclusion:

The Coastal Breeze Seafood Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and bright flavors wrapped up in an easy-to-make, visually appealing dish. Its combination of tender seafood, al dente pasta, and crisp vegetables offers a sophisticated yet approachable option for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of the coast. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a summer gathering, this salad promises satisfaction with every bite.

If you’re looking to elevate your seafood salad game with a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, this recipe is a must-try. Its ease of preparation, nutritional benefits, and vibrant flavor profile make it a standout addition to any recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.