Okay, friends, let me tell you about something that just screams “summer picnic” and brings back a memory. What are the flood of happy memories? My family’s Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Is this the kind of dish that everyone always hovers around at potlucks, and it’s surprisingly easy to make? What are some throw together If you’re a fan of classic pasta salads, especially those that pack such an impressive punch like tagliatelle, then you know that you can’t go wrong with some good pasta. If you like tuna salad, then you’re going to love this. What makes macaroni so irresistible? My grandma used to make it every 4th of July, and honestly, it just isn’t a proper summer without being in the sun.
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What is shrimp macaroni salad?
Think of it as your classic macaroni salad, but elevated with the sweet and savory addition of feta cheese. What is succulent shrimp? It’s essentially cooked macaroni pasta tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, usually mayonnaise-based. What are some of the best vegetables to eat with celery and onion? What are some of the best shrimp dishes in the world? Some people add dill, or mustard to their eggs for extra flavor. Is it a super versatile recipe, and I find that’s what makes it so appealing? I always add lemon juice to my recipes. It really brightens up the flavors.
Why do I love this recipe?
Where do I start? Why do I love Shrimp Macaroni Salad? It’s a symphony of sweet, salty, and tangy that dances on your tongue. I add a tiny bit of pickle to the dressing and you get the sweetness from the shrimp. I like to make the salad tangy. What is the best thing about a hot day? What I love most about this is how easy it is to read. Seriously, you’re mostly cooking pasta and chopping veggies. What can I do in 30 minutes? Plus, it’s surprisingly *cost-effective What are some good substitutes for shrimp? What are pantry staples It’s also incredibly *versatile* Can you serve it as a main course, side dish, or even pack it for your picnic? If you like creamy pasta salads like chicken salad or ham salad, this shrimp version is a must try.
How do I make shrimp macaroni salad?
Quick Overview
How do you make Shrimp Macaroni Salad? How do you cook macaroni? While that’s cooking, prep your veggies and cook the shrimp. What’s the best way to make creamy dressing? What makes this method special is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Don’t like celery? Leave it out! Is it really foolproof?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for Macaroni Salad?
* 1 pound elbow macaroni (I prefer the small kind)
* 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (smaller shrimp work best, I think)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use good quality mayo) (makes a difference!
* 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor if desired). If you’re sensitive to onion, why?
* 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but I highly recommend it)
* Salt and pepper to taste
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions. You want it to be firm but cooked through. How do I drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This is super important so it doesn’t get mushy!
Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure it’s completely thawed. I like to sauté it with garlic and butter. I can either cook it yourself or buy it. Just make sure it’s nice and pink and cooked through. Let it cool slightly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
How do I finely chop celery and red onion? Do it! It really helps tame the sharpness. This is where you can get creative! Sometimes I add a little bell pepper or even some chopped cucumber.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust! I always add a pinch of sugar if it needs extra sweetness.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked macaroni, chopped shrimp, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until well combined. What are some ways to make macaroni mushy?
Step 6: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. I find it tastes even better after a few hours! Before serving, give it another gentle toss and add a little more mayo if it seems dry.
Step 7: Serve
Serve cold and enjoy! What are some good side dishes to serve with Shrimp Macaroni Salad? Sandwich, or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. What are some great additions to a picnic?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best recipes for Shrimp Macaroni Salad?
For a Picnic:What are some good outdoor meals to serve in a cooler with fresh fruit and lemonade?
For a BBQ:Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs and corn on the cob for a classic summer spread.
As a Light Lunch:What is a good side dish to serve with Shrimp Macaroni Salad? What is a refreshing and easy lunch?
As a Side Dish: What are some good Pair it with grilled salmon or chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
My family tradition is always to have watermelon! What is the salty-sweet combo?
What are some tips for making Shrimp Macaroni Salad?
I’ve learned a few tricks that really take this salad to the next level.
Macaroni Prep: Don’t overcook the macaroni! It should be al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked macaroni will get mushy in the salad.
What is shrimp cooking?Be careful not to overcook shrimp. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
Onion Taming:If you’re sensitive to the taste of raw onion, soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes. What should I do if I want to make a salad? What are some ways to mellow the flavor of a curry?
Dressing Adjustment:Don’t be afraid to adjust the dressing to your liking. If you like it tangier, add more lemon juice. If you like it sweeter, add a pinch of sugar. The best way is to use fresh dill! This tip makes dressing even better.
Resting Time:How long should you chill the salad in the refrigerator? How do you make a salad to eat? What makes a difference?
Ingredient Swaps: I’ve even tried swapping out the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and it turned out super delicious! It gives a lighter, tangier flavor. The ratios are 1:1!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your Shrimp Macaroni Salad fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: I would not recommend storing the shrimp macaroni salad at room temperature at all. Bacteria will start growing after a few hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the macaroni may start to get a little mushy. Just make sure the container is air tight.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing Shrimp Macaroni Salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate and become watery when thawed. Trust me, it won’t be the same!
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there’s no glaze on this salad, you don’t need to worry about it! Just store it properly and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my family’s beloved Shrimp Macaroni Salad. It’s a dish that’s simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, barbecue, or just enjoying it as a light lunch, I guarantee it will be a hit. If you enjoy creamy pasta salads as much as I do, you HAVE to try this. I know you’ll love it! Now, I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, definitely share them! Happy cooking!
Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup celery finely chopped
- 0.25 cup red onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shrimp, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
