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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad is loaded with juicy shrimp, pasta, fresh vegetables, and a bright homemade lemon garlic dressing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 370
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • For the Lemon Garlic Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside and allow the pasta to cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the salad.
  6. Pour the lemon garlic dressing over the salad and toss until everything is lightly coated. Make sure the dressing reaches all the pasta and vegetables for maximum flavor.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors blend together and allows the dressing to absorb into the pasta.
  8. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional parsley, lemon slices, or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp work well if properly thawed before cooking. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery and tough. They should be removed from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
  • The lemon dressing can be prepared several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed. Shake or whisk again before using.
  • This salad tastes even better after chilling for a short period, allowing the bright lemon and garlic flavors to blend throughout the dish.