This Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad is a colorful dish full of yummy flavors! With juicy peaches, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s light and refreshing.
Perfect for a picnic or an easy dinner, this salad is a winner in my book. I love how the sweetness of the peaches pairs with the shrimp—it’s like a taste of summer on a plate! 🍑🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape holds the dressing well and pairs nicely with the salad. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, cooked chicken or even canned chickpeas would work. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Peaches: Ripe, juicy peaches add sweetness. If peaches are out of season, try substituting with nectarines or even diced mango for a tropical twist.
Greens: Arugula adds a peppery bite, but spinach or mixed salad greens can be good alternatives. They add great texture and color!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work too; just use less since it’s stronger.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly cooked:
- Start with cleaned shrimp—peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Toss them lightly with oil, garlic, and seasonings first. This helps in flavoring while they cook.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and ensure it’s hot before adding shrimp. This prevents them from steaming and helps achieve that nice, slightly crispy edge!
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep an eye on them!
Let them rest for a minute after cooking to finish off the flavor!
Delicious Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred short pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (look for the dark purple variety you see in the image)
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For The Dressing:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It requires a quick cook for the pasta and shrimp, followed by some easy combining—perfect for a fresh and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and give it a rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it well to coat the shrimp evenly with flavors.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once they’re ready, remove them from heat and set aside.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced peaches, halved tomatoes, fresh arugula, and basil leaves. It will look vibrant and colorful!
5. Add the Cooked Shrimp:
Now, gently add the cooked shrimp on top of the pasta salad. This adds both protein and flavor!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the remaining olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Toss everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated well.
7. Season to Taste:
Take a taste and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper, if needed. You want it to be just right!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Your Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad is ready to go! You can serve it immediately or chill it slightly in the fridge for a refreshing treat. Either way, it’s delicious and perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy the burst of flavors that this delightful salad brings!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running cold water over them in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute them with nectarines or slices of ripe mango. Both options will provide a lovely sweetness that pairs well with the shrimp!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients might settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and shrimp in advance and then assemble the salad just before serving. This will help keep the greens fresh and crunchy!
