Pasta Shrimp Mold
A savory cold pasta and shrimp mold with creamy tomato and vegetable flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or elegant appetizer presentations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain well and let it cool.
- Sprinkle unflavored gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped celery, minced onion, and chopped shrimp.
- Heat the tomato soup until steaming but do not boil.
- Add mayonnaise and cubed cream cheese to the hot tomato soup; stir constantly until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the shrimp and vegetable mixture; blend well.
- Add the gelatin and water mixture; blend thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into an oiled 6-cup mold and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Unmold the mold onto a serving plate and slice.
- Serve on lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture. If you prefer a different protein, cooked crab or scallops can be substituted for shrimp. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Ensure the pasta is fully cooled before mixing to avoid melting the cream cheese too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molded pasta shrimp on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a crisp contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra touch, drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette or serve alongside a seafood recipe like Seafood Fettucine Alfredo to elevate your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual slices in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or serve cold for a refreshing option. This dish is perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Shrimp Mold contains roughly 296 calories, with 5g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% 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 different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente, so it holds its shape well in the mold.
Is it necessary to use gelatin in this recipe?
Gelatin is essential for achieving the molded texture of this dish. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute with agar-agar, following the package instructions for the correct ratio.
How can I make this dish more colorful?
Incorporate colorful vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or shredded carrots into the mix. Not only will they add vibrant color, but they will also provide additional nutrients and flavor to your pasta shrimp mold.
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).