This Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of sweet peaches, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something light and tasty!
I love how the juicy peaches add a nice sweetness to the dish. Pair it with a cold drink, and you’ve got yourself a delightful meal that’s easy to whip up. 🍑🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta holds onto the dressing well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too—just thaw it first. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try grilled chicken or tofu for protein instead.
Peaches: Fresh summer peaches add sweetness. If out of season, use canned peaches in juice or try nectarines for a similar flavor. They’re just as good!
Mixed Greens: I like red leaf lettuce or purple cabbage for color. You can use spinach or arugula as nice alternatives. They add a peppery taste that’s delightful.
Dressing: The olive oil and lemon juice provide freshness. If you’re dairy-free, skip the honey and use maple syrup or leave it out entirely.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp quickly and properly is key to keeping it tender. Here’s a simple guide:
- Start with a medium heat skillet and add olive oil, enough to coat the bottom.
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and oregano; let it sit a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink (overcooking can make them rubbery).
- Remove from heat quickly to stop the cooking process; this keeps them juicy!
Follow these steps for perfectly cooked shrimp that enhances your pasta salad!
Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Proteins:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or spiral pasta)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Fruits & Vegetables:
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens (such as red leaf lettuce or purple cabbage for color)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking shrimp)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking the pasta and shrimp. Chill time is optional, but it’s great to let the flavors mingle for about 15 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-10 minutes. After that, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will add a zesty flavor to your salad!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, sliced peaches, mixed greens, and optional cherry tomatoes. Gently combine all the ingredients for an even mix.
5. Add Dressing and Herbs:
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta and shrimp are coated well. Finally, sprinkle the fresh basil on top and give it a light toss again to incorporate.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you want to enhance the flavors, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Otherwise, serve it right away! This salad is a wonderfully refreshing light meal that’s perfect for hot summer days or picnic outings.
Now you have a beautiful Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad ready to impress everyone—enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the dressing, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Gluten-free options are available too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, you can add a little olive oil or lemon juice while mixing before serving to refresh it.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe! Substitute the shrimp with a plant-based protein like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
If peaches aren’t in season, you can swap them with nectarines, mangoes, or even strawberries for a similar sweet profile. Each fruit will bring a unique flavor to the salad!
