This Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of sweet peaches, juicy shrimp, and pasta tossed in a light dressing. Perfect for warm days or picnics!
You can really taste the summer in every bite! I love serving it cold, and it’s a hit at gatherings. Plus, it comes together quickly—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love rotini for its ability to hold onto the dressing and ingredients. If you don’t have rotini, you can use fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp is great, but you can use any size shrimp. If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star here! If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches in juice (not syrup) for a quick swap. Nectarines also work well if you want a similar taste.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor. If you can’t find it, try fresh mint or parsley for a different twist. Dried herbs work too, but add a pinch since they are stronger.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but you want them tender and juicy, not rubbery. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with cleaned shrimp, and let them come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat, then add oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and season.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove when opaque.
Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (about 2 cups uncooked)
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful summer dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a few minutes for cooking the shrimp. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic in the sun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente so that it has a nice bite. Once cooked, drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Cooking the Shrimp:
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your shrimp with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. When done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Making the Dressing:
In the same large mixing bowl where your pasta is, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and a bit more salt and pepper. This will be your dressing, which adds a bright flavor to the salad!
4. Combining Everything:
Now it’s time to mix everything! Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, peach slices, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped basil to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Serving the Salad:
For a pretty presentation, garnish your salad with whole basil leaves. You can serve this delicious Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s refreshing and full of flavor!
Enjoy your fresh, summery Peach & Shrimp Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or run them under cool water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes. Pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
You can definitely make this salad ahead! Prepare the pasta and shrimp, and mix everything except the dressing. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, stir in the dressing to keep the flavors fresh.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully! To serve again, you might want to add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the taste.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even avocado for extra texture. If you’re a fan of fruit, try adding diced mango or strawberries for a delightful twist!