Chillin' Out Pasta Salad
Chillin' Out Pasta Salad offers a refreshing blend of pasta, shrimp, and vegetables, coated in a tangy yogurt mustard dressing—perfect for light, flavorful summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain and cool the pasta.
- In a large bowl, stir together yogurt, mustard, and herb seasoning.
- Add cooked pasta, chopped celery, and sliced green onions to the bowl.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Chill the salad for at least 2 hours.
- Just before serving, carefully stir in cooked shrimp and chopped tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of plain nonfat yogurt. You can also substitute the shrimp with diced cooked chicken for a heartier option. If you prefer a bit more spice, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This salad can be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad chilled as a light main dish or as a side at picnics and barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be part of a seafood feast alongside dishes like Seafood Pasta Supreme(A Great Idea By Linda). Garnish with additional green onions for a pop of color before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad may thicken as it sits; to refresh it, stir in a little extra yogurt or a splash of water before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chillin' Out Pasta Salad contains roughly 42 calories, with 6g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are fully cooked and thawed before adding to the salad. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad. For convenience, pre-cooked shrimp are a great time-saver.
What can I substitute for the shell pasta?
If you don't have medium shell pasta, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Is there a vegetarian version of this pasta salad?
Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp and add more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or olives, for added flavor and texture. You might also consider incorporating chickpeas for additional protein, making it a hearty vegetarian dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).