Description
For the Salad:
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and
cooked through. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh oregano.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving, or serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes, dice zucchini and red bell pepper, thinly slice red onion, chop oregano, and crumble feta. Pat shrimp dry.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook to al dente according to package directions. Drain, rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking, and let cool completely.
3. Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Transfer to a plate to cool.
4. Make Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
5. Assemble Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine cooled pasta, cooled shrimp, and all prepped vegetables. Add feta and oregano.
6. Dress & Serve: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. For best flavor, chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect for a light lunch or a standout side dish. For a complete meal, serve with crusty garlic bread or grilled pita. To elevate a summer spread, present it on a bed of crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, lemon-herb salmon, or simply alongside a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta and shrimp. Chop all vegetables and herbs. Whisk dressing ingredients until combined. Combine all salad components in a large bowl, pour dressing over, and toss. Chill briefly before serving for optimal flavor melding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For the best texture, add the dressing 30-60 minutes before serving.
What’s a good substitute for shrimp? Grilled chicken breast, chickpeas, or flaked salmon are excellent protein alternatives.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Short, sturdy shapes like farfalle, rotini, or shells work well to hold the dressing and ingredients.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to feta? For a similar tangy, salty profile, try dairy-free feta or marinated tofu cubes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding warm pasta or shrimp to the salad, as this will wilt the vegetables and melt the feta. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Ensure your dressing is well-whisked into an emulsion; a separated dressing won’t coat evenly. Finally, don’t skip the chilling step—it allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and simple preparation. It’s a reliably delicious recipe that is easily customizable based on your preferences or what’s in season. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick family dinner, this dish proves that healthy eating can be both effortless and utterly satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at your table.