This vibrant Summery Shrimp and Green Bean Pasta Salad is a perfect light and refreshing dish to enjoy on a warm day. The shrimp adds a delicious seafood twist, while the green beans and pasta provide a hearty base. Tossed in a tangy lemon mustard dressing, this dish offers a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal or bringing it to a summer potluck, it’s sure to impress with its freshness and simplicity.
The best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add more veggies, swap the pasta for a gluten-free option, or even throw in some feta or olives for an extra flavor boost. This dish is not only healthy but also customizable to whatever you have on hand, making it the perfect addition to any meal plan.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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8 oz pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
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2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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2 teaspoons honey
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In the same pot, add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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In a large bowl, combine pasta, green beans, shrimp, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Health Benefits of Shrimp and Green Beans
Not only is this Summery Shrimp and Green Bean Pasta Salad delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein while being low in calories and fat. It’s also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, which are crucial for maintaining good health. Eating shrimp regularly can support your immune system, improve your metabolism, and keep your skin looking healthy due to its high levels of antioxidants.
Green beans, on the other hand, are a fantastic vegetable that provides a good amount of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. They’re also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like manganese and folate. The addition of green beans not only enhances the nutritional profile of the dish but also gives it a satisfying crunch that complements the tenderness of the shrimp and the pasta.
The dressing, made from ingredients like olive oil, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice, provides a healthy fat source, a burst of flavor, and a punch of vitamin C, which contributes to overall health. Combined, these ingredients create a balanced, nutrient-rich dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite good for you.
Why This Pasta Salad is Perfect for Summer
Summer is the time for fresh, light meals that don’t require too much time in the kitchen, and this Summery Shrimp and Green Bean Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. The warm weather often calls for dishes that are easy to prepare, don’t weigh you down, and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. This pasta salad checks all of those boxes. It’s light but satisfying, with the shrimp providing the protein and the pasta giving you the comfort factor that makes this meal feel complete.
One of the best things about this dish is that it’s not too heavy—there’s no need for any heavy cream or excessive amounts of cheese. Instead, the dressing is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the seafood, green beans, and pasta. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone dish or as part of a larger spread, it’s an ideal choice for summer dinners or casual outdoor gatherings.
Customizing Your Summery Shrimp and Green Bean Pasta Salad
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to your tastes or dietary preferences. For instance, if you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety. You can find plenty of gluten-free pasta options at most grocery stores, from brown rice pasta to quinoa pasta. This adjustment will make the dish suitable for people with gluten sensitivities while still maintaining its delicious taste and texture.
If you want to add more vegetables or change the flavor profile, feel free to swap the green beans for another vegetable. Asparagus, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes could work beautifully in this salad. The tangy lemon mustard dressing is a perfect match for any of these vegetables, and it will still provide the refreshing zing you’re looking for.
Another option is to add some extra toppings or ingredients to boost the flavor. Crumbled feta cheese or Kalamata olives would introduce a Mediterranean flair to the dish, while roasted red peppers could add a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs like basil or mint could be used to garnish, adding another layer of flavor and color.
Serving Ideas for Different Occasions
The versatility of this shrimp and green bean pasta salad makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a simple lunch, but it also works well at larger gatherings such as barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. The dish can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for busy hosts who want to prepare a dish in advance.
For a more formal gathering, serve this pasta salad as a side dish alongside grilled fish, steak, or chicken. The refreshing flavors will complement the richness of the main course, creating a well-rounded meal. If you’re serving it for a casual picnic or barbecue, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or vegetable skewers.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
There’s something about the combination of shrimp, pasta, and fresh vegetables that makes this dish universally appealing. It’s not too heavy, it’s full of vibrant flavors, and it’s a great way to use fresh, in-season produce. The zesty mustard and lemon dressing ties everything together, making each bite both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a small group or a crowd, this recipe will surely impress. It’s simple yet elegant, and its easy preparation means you can focus on enjoying the occasion rather than stressing over the meal.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Summer Dish
In conclusion, this Summery Shrimp and Green Bean Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for the warmer months. With its healthy ingredients, customizable options, and versatile serving possibilities, it’s a meal that works for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply looking for an easy, satisfying meal, this pasta salad will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of fresh, zesty flavors with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, making any meal feel special.