Cold Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Shrimp and Dill

There’s something undeniably comforting about a cold, creamy pasta salad, especially when it’s brimming with plump, juicy shrimp and the fresh, aromatic essence of dill. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a sunny afternoon picnic, a bustling summer barbecue, or a cozy kitchen where flavors meld together in perfect harmony. The combination of tender pasta, sweet shrimp, and a luxuriously creamy, tangy dressing makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or preparing it as a refreshing meal for yourself, this pasta salad is sure to steal the show.

What makes this recipe an absolute must-try? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to put together, yet the results taste like something straight out of a gourmet deli. The shrimp bring a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bright, citrusy zing of fresh lemon juice and the herbaceous burst of fragrant dill. The creamy dressing, a luscious blend of mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist), perfectly coats every piece of pasta, ensuring that each forkful is rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor.

And the best part? It’s completely customizable! Whether you like a bit of crunch from celery, a pop of color from cherry tomatoes, or an extra zing of spice, this pasta salad can be tailored to suit your personal taste. It’s also the ultimate make-ahead dish, as the flavors only get better with time. So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, this creamy shrimp pasta salad is calling your name.

Ingredients:

For the pasta salad:

• 12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta (cooked al dente for the best texture)
• 1 pound large shrimp, cooked, peeled, and deveined
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped (for a refreshing crunch)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (adds a subtle, zesty bite)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (cool and crisp for balance)
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (for a fragrant, herby lift)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (sweet and juicy bursts of flavor)

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (rich and creamy base)
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds a tangy, luscious element)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for a bright, citrusy kick)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds depth and mild heat)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of savory goodness)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to bring out all the flavors)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (just the right amount of warmth)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a subtle touch of sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step-1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. The goal is tender pasta with a slight bite, so it holds up well in the salad.
• Drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.

Step-2. Prepare the Shrimp

• If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
• Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking and lock in their plump, juicy texture.
• If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply rinse them under cold water and pat them dry.
• Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces if they’re large, or leave them whole for a more elegant presentation.

Step-3. Chop the Vegetables

• Dice the celery, red onion, and cucumber into small, uniform pieces for even distribution of crunch and flavor.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes for little juicy bursts in every bite.
• Finely chop the fresh dill, releasing its fragrant aroma as you go.

Step-4. Make the Dressing

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and honey.
• The result? A silky, creamy dressing with just the right balance of tang, sweetness, and savoriness.

Step-5. Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped shrimp, diced vegetables, and fresh dill.
• Drizzle the luscious dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step-6. Chill and Serve

• Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
• Serve it beautifully plated, garnished with extra dill and a squeeze of fresh lemon for an elegant finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Results:

• Always use the freshest shrimp possible—wild-caught varieties tend to have the best flavor.
• Be mindful of overcooking the pasta; al dente pasta holds up better and absorbs just the right amount of dressing.
• Give the salad time to chill; it’s even better after resting for a couple of hours.
• Adjust the dressing to your preference—start with a little and add more if needed.

Creative Variations:

• Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Spicy Cajun: Toss in a bit of Cajun seasoning for a zesty Southern kick.
• Avocado Lover’s Dream: Blend ripe avocado into the dressing for extra creaminess and a vibrant green hue.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, fresher take.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a light main course with a crusty baguette on the side.
• Pair it with grilled salmon or chicken for a more substantial meal.
• Scoop it onto crisp romaine leaves for a fun, handheld lettuce wrap version.

Storage Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.
• Avoid freezing, as the creamy texture doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

The Bottom Line:

This cold, creamy shrimp pasta salad is everything you want in a summer dish—light yet indulgent, refreshing yet satisfying, simple yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, a party, or just because you deserve a delicious meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to favorite!

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Also Read:

19 Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings