Imagine a dish that combines the zesty kick of a classic Bloody Mary with the refreshing delight of a summer pasta salad - sounds irresistible, right? Our Bloody Mary Shrimp Pasta Salad is not just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or when you want to impress your guests with a unique and tantalizing dish that bridges the gap between a cocktail and a meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Bloody Mary mix
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp. In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup of diced celery, and 1/4 cup of diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of Bloody Mary mix and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Pour this dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Season the pasta salad with additional salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss and check the seasoning one last time. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, use freshly cooked and slightly chilled shrimp • Choose a high-quality Bloody Mary mix for the best taste profile • Let the salad marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor integration • Use al dente pasta to prevent a mushy texture • For extra zing, add a dash of hot sauce or horseradish to the dressing • Consider garnishing with fresh dill or chives for added freshness • If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving to maintain texture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
