Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad

Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Papaya

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh asparagus, sweet papaya, succulent shrimp, and tangy mango flavors creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional pasta salads, incorporating tropical fruits and seafood for a unique and exotic flavor profile. The use of mango nectar and chutney adds a sweet and tangy element to the dish, while the asparagus provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh asparagus spears, rinsed and trimmed
1 papaya, peeled, halved and pitted
0.33 cup light sour cream
0.25 cup mango nectar
1.5 tbsp mango chutney
grated peel of 1 lemon
6 oz (170 g) fusilli or rotelle pasta, cooked, rinsed, drained and cooled
0.33 lb (150 g) small cooked shrimp
0.25 cup sliced scallions
8 leaves bibb or boston lettuce
lemon wedges
fresh mint

How to prepare

Cook the asparagus in boiling water, covered, for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
Set aside 12 asparagus spears and chop the rest into 1-inch pieces.
Slice half of the papaya into thin, lengthwise slices (8-12 slices) and cut the remaining half into bite-size pieces.
In a large bowl, combine sour cream, nectar, chutney, and lemon peel.
Stir in the pasta, asparagus pieces, papaya pieces, shrimp, and scallions.
Chill the mixture briefly.
Divide the pasta mixture over lettuce leaves on four plates.
Arrange the reserved papaya slices and asparagus spears on top.
Garnish with lemon twists or wedges and fresh mint, if desired.

Variations

Substitute cooked chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein option.
Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Use a different type of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, for a healthier twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the asparagus until it is just crisp-tender to maintain its bright green color and fresh flavor.

- Chill the pasta mixture briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Garnish the salad with fresh mint and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness and brightness.

Serving Suggestions

This Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.

- When cooking the shrimp, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find mango nectar, you can use orange juice or pineapple juice as a substitute.

- Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the fresh mint and lemon wedges right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the salad on a platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh fruit.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of this Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This dish has about 6 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the sour cream and shrimp.

Proteins

Each serving of this pasta salad provides around 15 grams of protein, thanks to the shrimp and pasta.

Vitamins and minerals

The asparagus in this recipe is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. Papaya adds vitamin C and potassium to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (sour cream), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, this pasta salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad is a delightful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its combination of fresh asparagus, sweet papaya, succulent shrimp, and tangy mango flavors, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for a casual lunch. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on iced tea and catching up on the latest gossip, Margaret suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry.

A few moments later, she emerged with a worn recipe card in her hand. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she handed it to me and said, "I think you'll love this one, dear. It's a family favorite."

Curious, I took the card and read over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, and zesty dressing sounded absolutely delightful. I couldn't wait to try it.

Margaret had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She told me that it was a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, always bringing smiles to the faces of those who enjoyed it.

As I made the Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad for the first time in my own kitchen, I couldn't help but think of all the memories and traditions that were tied to this dish. The aroma of cooking shrimp and the sound of boiling pasta filled the air, reminding me of the warmth and love that surrounded me.

When I finally took my first bite of the salad, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own family, just as it had in Margaret's.

Over the years, I have made the Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad countless times, each batch slightly different from the last. I have added my own personal touches, experimenting with new ingredients and flavors to make it my own.

But no matter how many times I make it, the recipe always brings back memories of that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen. It reminds me of the power of food to connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to the simple joys of life.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Lovely Shrimp Pasta Salad with my own family, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought us together, and for the friendships and traditions that have enriched my life.