Name: Seafood Pasta with Shrimp Crab
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini or penne pasta (cooked al dente); 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled); 1 cup fresh crab meat (checked for shells); ½ cup celery (finely chopped); ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ¼ cup red onion (finely diced); ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped (or parsley)); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

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Embrace the vibrant flavors of the sea with this delightful Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab. This refreshing pasta salad combines tender shrimp and sweet crab meat with crisp vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy lemon-herb dressing that invigorates your tastebuds with every bite.

Perfectly light yet satisfying, it’s an ideal dish for warm days, whether you’re prepping meals ahead, bringing something special to a potluck, or simply enjoying a quick lunch or dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines fresh seafood and crisp veggies for a delightful texture contrast.
The creamy lemon-herb dressing adds brightness and depth to every forkful.
Easy to prepare ahead and perfect for meals on the go.
Versatile enough to enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Rotini or penne pasta (8 oz, ≈ 225 g): Choose corkscrew or tubular shapes that hold the creamy dressing perfectly.
Cooked shrimp (1 cup): Tender, peeled shrimp provide a succulent seafood base rich in flavor.
Fresh crab meat (1 cup): Sweet, delicate crab carefully checked for shells ensures a premium seafood touch.
Celery (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds a fresh, crisp crunch and subtle earthiness.
Cherry tomatoes (½ cup, halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness add vibrant color and flavor balance.
Red onion (¼ cup, finely diced): Brings mild sharpness and an aromatic bite.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): Creates a smooth, creamy base for the dressing.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds bright acidity to lift and lighten the dressing.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides subtle heat and depth for a well-rounded flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the combined flavors.
Fresh dill (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brings delicate herbal freshness, but parsley can be swapped if preferred.
Lemon wedges (optional): Perfect for squeezing over just before serving to accentuate the citrus notes.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should be tender yet firm to the bite. This texture ensures the pasta holds up well in the salad without becoming mushy. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it completely; this also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together later.
Combine Pasta, Seafood & Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the cooled pasta, peeled cooked shrimp, and carefully checked crab meat to maintain their delicate textures. Add the finely chopped celery, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Stir lightly with a wide spoon to mix everything evenly without breaking apart the crab.
Prepare the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and perfectly emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust acidity or seasoning if desired – the lemon juice should brighten the flavors without overpowering them.
Assemble the Pasta Salad: Pour the creamy lemon-herb dressing over the pasta and seafood mixture. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the top, then gently toss using a folding motion to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated. This helps meld the flavors together while keeping the seafood pieces intact.
Chill & Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serving chilled enhances the refreshing quality of this dish. Offer optional lemon wedges on the side for guests to add a final citrus burst just before eating.

You Must Know

Rinsing pasta under cold water stops cooking and prevents a sticky texture ideal for salads.
Be gentle when folding to keep the succulent crab meat pieces whole and visually appealing.
Swapping part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt gives a lighter, tangier dressing without sacrificing creaminess.
Add crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber for extra variety and freshness.
This salad tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to deepen.

Storage Tips

Store the seafood pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, avoid freezing as the creamy dressing and seafood quality may be compromised.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled as a refreshing lunch or light dinner alongside crisp green salads or crusty bread. It also pairs wonderfully with chilled white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon.

Professional Tips

Choose high-quality fresh crab meat for the best sweetness and texture.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, natural acidity that store-bought juices can’t match.
Make ahead and refrigerate to let the flavors meld fully, enhancing the overall taste.
Keep seafood cold right up until serving to maintain freshness and safety.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?: Yes, canned crab meat can be used in a pinch, but fresh or lump crab meat offers the best texture and flavor for this salad.
What pasta works best for this dish?: Rotini or penne are ideal as their shapes hold onto the creamy dressing nicely, providing even flavor in every bite.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?: Yes, you can replace part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option with added tang.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely. This seafood pasta salad holds well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners.
Can I add other vegetables?: Yes, adding chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some corn kernels can enhance the crunch and add nutritional variety.
Should I peel the shrimp myself?: Pre-peeled cooked shrimp can speed up preparation, but peeling fresh shrimp yourself ensures freshness and control over size.
How can I keep the crab meat from breaking apart?: Gently fold the salad ingredients and avoid vigorous stirring to keep the delicate crab meat intact and visually appealing.