Refreshing Shrimp & Greek Yogurt Pasta Salad
On a hot summer day, nothing hits the spot like a cool, colorful pasta salad with a fresh taste of the sea. This shrimp cold pasta combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a smooth yogurt-based dressing for a light yet satisfying meal—perfect for picnics, lunches, or any time you need a flavorful escape from the heat!
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
• 8 oz raw peeled shrimp, deveined and tails removed
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup Crema Mexicana
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce or a few drops of Tabasco (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon-pepper seasoning (or ½ tsp black pepper)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ small avocado, diced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• a bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over low heat. Sauté the shrimp until golden and just cooked through, then set aside to cool.
3. Finely chop the garlic, celery, red pepper, parsley, and avocado.
4. Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, drop in the cooled pasta, then the yogurt, Crema Mexicana, green onions, lemon juice, Tabasco, lemon-pepper seasoning, celery, red pepper, avocado, chili powder, and most of the parsley.
6. Mix gently.
7. Fold in the cooked shrimp, reserving a few for garnish.
8. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with the remaining shrimp and parsley.
9. Serve cold and enjoy!
Buon appetito! 🍤🌿