Shrimp Pasta Lemon Dill

Shrimp Pasta Salad is my favorite way to bring bright summery flavors into any gathering. With juicy shrimp and bow tie pasta tossed in a zesty lemon dill sauce, every bite is cool and refreshing. This works as a light main or a side that vanishes fast at picnics and barbecues.

I made this for a family reunion one July afternoon and it disappeared in no time. Even picky eaters cleaned their plates and asked for more.

Ingredients

• Lemon: provides bright acidity plus fragrance Choose one that feels heavy for its size
• Mayonnaise: makes the dressing creamy Pick full-fat for best flavor
• Sour cream: adds tang and lightens the mayonnaise Look for one with a smooth texture
• Fresh dill: brings herbal freshness Snip from bunches with feathery fronds
• Salt: brings all the other flavors into balance Go for a fine sea salt if possible
• Bow tie pasta: holds the dressing well and gives a fun shape Cook until just tender
• Medium shrimp: gives sweet seafood notes Use peeled and deveined for ease
• Cucumber: offers crispness Choose firm dark-skinned cucumbers
• Carrots: add crunch and color Slice thin on the bias
• Red pepper: adds sweetness and color Go for firm peppers with shiny skin
• Green onions: bring mild bite Use both white and green parts sliced thin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dressing:

Zest the lemon directly into a large bowl then cut and juice it into the same bowl. Whisk in mayonnaise sour cream chopped dill and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and flecked with green herbs

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a large pot of water with a pinch of salt. Add bow tie pasta and cook until al dente about ten minutes. Drain pasta then rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Let the pasta drain completely so the salad does not water down

Prepare the Vegetables and Shrimp:

While pasta is cooling slice cucumber and carrots. Chop red pepper into thick chunks. Thinly slice green onions including tops. Make sure shrimp is cooked and peeled

Combine Ingredients:

In a big mixing bowl combine cooled pasta shrimp cucumber carrots red pepper and green onions. Gently toss to mix all the colors and textures

Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad and use two large spoons to toss everything together until coated well. Taste and add a pinch more salt or extra lemon if desired

Chill the Salad:

Cover the bowl tightly and place in the refrigerator. Let the flavors develop for at least thirty minutes for the best taste. Overnight chilling truly brings out the bright dill and lemon notes

Save

Nothing beats the fresh dill in this salad for me. The scent reminds me of summers picking herbs from my garden. The first time I brought this to a party my friends begged for the recipe and now they make it every year.

Storage Tips

Keep this salad in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container This keeps it safe and at its best for up to three days For longer storage hold back the dressing and only add before serving so the veggies stay crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream if you prefer extra tang For extra color you can swap in chopped yellow or orange peppers or use small cooked pasta shells instead of bows You can use precooked frozen shrimp just defrost and blot dry

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled on a big platter lined with leafy greens Crusty bread makes a great companion at lunch For a dinner party plate it alongside grilled chicken or steak or pack it up for a perfect picnic addition with fresh lemonade

Cultural and Historical Context

Cold seafood salads became iconic in America during the mid twentieth century inspired by Mediterranean dining Bow tie pasta adds a playful European touch This dish brings together a classic pairing of seafood fresh herbs and lemon made for sharing on warm days

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Which type of pasta is best?

Bow tie or farfalle pasta is ideal because its shape holds the dressing well, but rotini or penne also works.

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, pre-cooked shrimp is convenient. Just make sure it's peeled and deveined before stirring in.

→ Is it necessary to chill before serving?

Chilling lets the flavors meld and the dressing soak in, improving both taste and texture. Overnight yields the best results.

→ How can I keep the salad fresh?

Cover tightly and refrigerate. Consume within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture. Stir gently before serving.

→ Can I substitute dried dill?

Fresh dill lends the brightest flavor, but dried dill can be used in a pinch. Start with one-third the amount.

→ What pairs well with this salad?

Serve alongside crusty bread or grilled vegetables. It also complements grilled meats or seafood nicely.