Sea Shell Salad with Mayo: A Refreshing Delight for Any Occasion
This delightful Sea Shell Salad with Mayo is not just an ordinary pasta dish; itβs a vibrant, flavor-packed salad that makes a perfect addition to any gathering or a satisfying meal on its own. Featuring tender shrimp and small shell pasta, this recipe marries simple ingredients with a zesty dressing to create a dish that is both refreshing and fulfilling. With minimal preparation time and a chilling period that allows the flavors to meld beautifully, this salad is destined to become a favorite at your table.
Overview
- Cook Time: 3 hours (chilling time)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Category: Pasta Shells
- Rating: β β β β β (5 stars based on 1 review)
Description
I stumbled upon this recipe during a recent visit to Safeway, and its simplicity caught my attention. It promises to be not only easy to prepare but also an enjoyable dish that offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads. With the blend of shrimp and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a unique offering that stands out among the usual fare. Perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings, this salad brings a touch of freshness and excitement to your meal planning.
Ingredients
To craft this tantalizing Sea Shell Salad with Mayo, gather the following ingredients, ensuring that you have everything on hand for a seamless cooking experience.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Small shell pasta | 1 lb |
| Mayonnaise | ΒΌ cup |
| Light mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Horseradish | to taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | to taste |
Nutritional Information
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a smart choice for your next meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 414.8 |
| Total Fat | 5.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 149.8 mg |
| Sodium | 266.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 64.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 6.8 g |
| Protein | 25.9 g |
Instructions
The preparation of this salad is straightforward and involves mixing together several components to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Follow these steps to achieve the best results.
-
Cook the Pasta and Shrimp:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the small shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a gentle boil, then add the shrimp. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and let cool before peeling and deveining if necessary.
-
Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooked small shell pasta and shrimp, ensuring they are evenly mixed and ready to absorb the dressing.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, light mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, and horseradish until smooth and well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more horseradish for a spicier kick if desired.
-
Mix Everything Together:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and shrimp mixture. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients, ensuring the dressing is evenly distributed. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors of the salad.
-
Chill the Salad:
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop fully. This chilling time is essential for the best taste experience.
-
Serve:
- After the chilling period, give the salad a gentle stir, taste for seasoning, and adjust if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve chilled. This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Final Thoughts
This Sea Shell Salad with Mayo is an ideal dish for those warm, sunny days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or a simple family dinner, it promises to impress with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. Try it out, and youβll find it becoming a staple in your summer repertoire!
With its easy preparation and fantastic taste, this recipe is bound to garner compliments from family and friends alike. Enjoy the process, relish the flavors, and make every meal a memorable occasion with this refreshing salad.
