This Citrus Herb Shrimp Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of fresh and zesty flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. With a combination of succulent shrimp, vibrant herbs, and citrusy zing, it’s an easy yet elegant meal that's sure to impress.
The foundation of this dish is the rotini pasta, which holds the dressing beautifully and adds a satisfying texture. The star of the show is the shrimp, offering a rich source of protein and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the citrus and herbs. The olive oil provides a smooth base for sautéing the garlic and shrimp, enhancing their flavors.
Garlic adds depth and warmth, while the lemon and lime zest and juice introduce brightness and tang. Fresh parsley and basil bring an aromatic freshness, complemented by the crispness of red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Finally, seasoning with salt and pepper ties everything together.
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing iced tea. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it's al dente. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This not only stops the cooking process but also cools the pasta down, which is perfect for a pasta salad.
Next, heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute, just until it's fragrant but before it browns. Now, add the shrimp to the skillet, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook them until they turn pink and opaque. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, parsley, basil, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Use a large spoon or tongs to toss everything together until well combined. Give it a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
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