Looking for a refreshing, protein-packed pasta salad perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners? This Seafood Pasta Salad combines tender pasta with succulent shrimp, tender crab meat, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing.

It’s light, flavorful, and customizable—making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Seafood Pasta Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Packed with seafood protein and vegetables
• Light, tangy, and refreshing flavor
• Perfect for summer meals, parties, and gatherings
• Can be made ahead and chilled for convenience

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🦐 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad

• 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked crab meat or imitation crab, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup sweet corn (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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🔥 How to Make Seafood Pasta Salad

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
• Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

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2. Prepare the Seafood

• If using raw shrimp, boil or sauté until pink and opaque.
• Drain cooked shrimp and let cool.
• Chop crab meat into bite-sized pieces if needed.

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3. Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

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4. Combine Salad Ingredients

• Add shrimp, crab, celery, bell pepper, onion, corn, and parsley to the bowl with pasta.
• Pour the dressing over the top.
• Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

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5. Chill Before Serving

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Serve cold for a refreshing, flavorful pasta salad.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish for barbecues or picnics
• Enjoy as a light lunch with crusty bread
• Garnish with lemon wedges or extra parsley for presentation
• Add a sprinkle of paprika or Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor

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🌟 Tips for the Best Seafood Pasta Salad

• Use fresh or frozen seafood for maximum flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy salad.
• Chill before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
• Customize your vegetables: add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado.
• Make ahead: Salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
• Do not freeze: Creamy seafood pasta salads do not freeze well.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This Seafood Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing, and protein-packed dish perfect for any occasion. Combining succulent shrimp, tender crab, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, it’s a versatile recipe that works for family meals, summer picnics, or potlucks. Easy to make and delicious, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers.

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