Deluxe Shrimp Salad
A creamy, flavorful shrimp salad with tender pasta, peas, and cheese, perfect for a light lunch or potluck, combining seafood with savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine low-fat yogurt, bottled French or Catalina dressing, salt, garlic salt, pepper, and seafood seasoning. Mix well.
- Add the diced boiled shrimp, frozen peas, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the dressing mixture. Stir to combine.
- Dump in the cooked macaroni and mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy twist, consider substituting sour cream for the low-fat yogurt. You can also use any type of cheese you prefer instead of Cheddar, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack. To add some crunch, toss in some diced celery or bell peppers. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor. This salad pairs beautifully with Shrimp Dip(Hot Or Cold) for a delightful seafood-themed meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Deluxe Shrimp Salad as a refreshing main dish or a side at your next gathering. It goes well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a light and enjoyable dining experience. This dish can also be a wonderful addition to seafood recipes at summer picnics or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a little more dressing or yogurt before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat; simply serve it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deluxe Shrimp Salad contains roughly 149 calories, with 19g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1968mg per serving (86% 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 instead of boiled shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain excess water before dicing. If desired, you can also sauté the shrimp briefly for added flavor before adding them to the salad.
What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni?
If you're looking for an alternative to elbow macaroni, consider using small shells, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. These options will still provide a delightful texture and hold the dressing well.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the Deluxe Shrimp Salad more filling, you can add cooked diced potatoes or chickpeas. Both will add substance and make it a heartier meal, perfect for a lunch or a light dinner.
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).