Cajun Shrimp Pasta Salad
Forget boring pasta salads—this one actually has personality. Juicy, spice-rubbed shrimp meets creamy dressing, crisp veggies, and tender pasta in a dish that demands attention. The bold Cajun seasoning brings smoky heat, while the cool dressing balances every bite. It’s fresh, spicy, and so good you might just “accidentally” eat the whole bowl. Whether you need a killer side dish or a meal-prep lifesaver, this pasta salad delivers. Serve it cold, warm, or straight from the fridge at midnight. Ready to ditch the bland and turn up the flavor? Let’s get cooking.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta Salad
A bold and creamy Cajun shrimp pasta salad packed with smoky spices, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta rotini or penne work best
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined (medium-sized for easy bites)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp olive oil for perfectly seared shrimp
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (adds sweetness)
- ½ cup bell pepper diced (for crunch and color)
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped (because flavor matters)
- ½ cup celery sliced (classic Cajun crunch)
- ½ cup mayonnaise for creamy goodness
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt adds tang and balance
- 1 tbsp lemon juice brightens everything up
- 1 tsp hot sauce optional, but highly recommended
- ½ tsp garlic powder because garlic makes everything better
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- Season shrimp with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until opaque. Let cool slightly.
- Chop tomatoes, bell pepper, celery, and onion while shrimp rests.
- Whisk mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, hot sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine pasta, shrimp, veggies, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend. Or eat immediately if patience isn’t your thing.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 12%
- Iron: 15%
- Vitamin C: 18%
- Potassium: 10%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Swap Greek yogurt for all mayo if you want it richer.
- Add avocado for extra creaminess and a little indulgence.
- Use whole wheat pasta if you’re feeling “healthy.”
- Extra Cajun seasoning? Toss it in—no one’s stopping you.
- Store leftovers in the fridge—but good luck having any.
