Name: Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces farfalle pasta or your favorite pasta; 1 pound cooked shrimp; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup fresh dill; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup lemon juice (from 2 large lemons); 1 tablespoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 7 reviews

If you’re looking to brighten up your meal routine with something fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive, this Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender shrimp mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a lively dressing bursting with zesty lemon and fragrant dill. It’s the ideal balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes that come together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, quick weeknight dinners, or even a light lunch that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A small clear glass bowl sits in the center on a white marbled surface, filled with bright yellow lemon dressing with tiny green herb leaves floating in it. Inside the bowl rests a wooden spoon with a smooth texture, its brown handle angled to the upper right. Surrounding the bowl, there are two lemon halves showing their juicy pale yellow-inside left, a whole lemon with a smooth bright yellow peel on the right, a white garlic bulb on the upper left, and a small round wooden dish of white salt above. Also visible are a small white dish holding salt and pepper, some sprigs of fresh green herbs at the bottom, a clear glass bottle with light brown oil near the top right, and a white kitchen towel with blue stripes on the right edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is what makes this dish shine so brightly. Each component adds its own magic, from the nutty Parmesan to the refreshing dill, and the tangy lemon dressing that ties it all together. Let’s take a peek at what you’ll need to create this delightful Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe.

12 ounces farfalle pasta: The bow-tie shape adds fun texture and holds onto the dressing beautifully.
1 pound cooked shrimp: Ready-to-eat shrimp save time and provide a succulent seafood punch.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, salty depth that complements the shrimp perfectly.
1/2 cup fresh dill: Offers a bright, herbal note that truly elevates the entire salad.
1/2 cup olive oil: The base of the dressing, delivering richness and smoothness.
1/3 cup lemon juice (from 2 large lemons): Packs a fresh and tangy kick that awakens your palate.
1 tablespoon honey: Balances the acidity of the lemon with a subtle sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dressing a savory punch without overpowering.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that amplify all the flavors.

How to Make Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and seasoning it generously with salt. This seasoning is crucial because it enhances the flavor of your pasta from the inside out. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente—firm yet tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Dill Dressing

While your pasta is cooking, whisk together your lemon dill dressing. In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, plus salt and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, slightly thickened mixture. This bright and tangy dressing is what brings all the flavors of your salad together with zing and zest.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the cooked shrimp, fresh dill, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Each ingredient adds its own texture and flavor, creating layers of taste in every bite. Then drizzle your lemon dill dressing over the bowl, gently tossing everything until it’s evenly coated. This careful mixing is the secret to a balanced salad where every forkful is bursting with freshness.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

You can serve your salad immediately, but giving it a short chill in the refrigerator allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Just 15 to 30 minutes in the fridge can make a noticeable difference, making your Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe even more refreshing and flavorful when you dig in.

How to Serve Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe

A white bowl filled with layers of farfalle pasta mixed with small green herb pieces, topped with several pink shrimp arranged on top and among the pasta. There are thin lemon slices placed on the pasta along with green dill sprigs scattered around, adding bright green color and texture. A silver fork stands upright in the bowl on the left side. In the background, more lemon slices and dill sprigs rest on a white marbled surface. The overall look is fresh, light, and colorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can add an inviting touch and brighten your presentation. Try sprinkling extra fresh dill or a light dusting of Parmesan over the top. A few lemon wedges on the side add vibrant color and let guests add a little extra citrus zing if they’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This salad stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, grilled vegetables, or crusty artisan bread to soak up any extra dressing. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or a light seafood chowder balances the lightness of the pasta salad perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve the salad in a large, eye-catching glass bowl or individual mason jars for a charming touch. You can also create a colorful buffet by layering the salad over a bed of mixed baby greens or arugula to add more texture and vibrant color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep it chilled and check the seasoning before serving again—you might want to add a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of salt to refresh the flavors.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The pasta tends to become mushy and the shrimp can lose its texture during freezing and thawing. For the best experience, avoid freezing and plan to finish it within a couple of days.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, serve it straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to take the chill off before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While farfalle is a fantastic choice because of its shape and texture, penne, rotini, or even bowtie pasta all work well. Just pick your favorite and cook it to al dente for the best salad texture.

Do I have to use cooked shrimp?

Using pre-cooked shrimp saves time, but if you have raw shrimp on hand, simply sauté or boil them until pink and opaque before adding to the salad. Season lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Is the lemon dill dressing gluten-free?

Yes, this dressing is naturally gluten-free as long as your Dijon mustard is gluten-free as well. Always double-check labels if gluten allergies are a concern.

Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

You can skip the shrimp and Parmesan and replace them with plant-based alternatives such as chickpeas and vegan cheese to create a delicious vegetarian or vegan-friendly version.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Additions like avocado chunks, cherry tomatoes, or roasted vegetables can boost the salad’s texture and heartiness, making it a more substantial meal without losing its fresh appeal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the freshness and balance this Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe brings to the table. It’s quick, vibrant, and satisfies those cravings for something both light and luscious. Whether you’re whipping it up for a picnic, a busy weeknight, or a casual gathering, it’s bound to become a favorite you return to again and again. Give it a try—you might just discover your new signature salad!

Shrimp Pasta Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need