Shrimp Fajita Pasta Salad

Shrimp Fajita Pasta Salad is a bold, colorful, and satisfying dish that brings together juicy shrimp, tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and all the vibrant flavors of classic fajitas. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a lively weeknight dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleasing fusion of Mexican and pasta salad favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Shrimp Fajita Pasta Salad because it’s packed with smoky, savory flavors and loaded with fresh, crunchy vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, high in protein, and brings a festive, vibrant twist to your typical pasta salad. Plus, it’s flexible enough to serve warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Short pasta (like rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Red bell pepper, sliced
• Yellow bell pepper, sliced
• Green bell pepper, sliced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Olive oil
• Fajita seasoning
• Lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil and fajita seasoning.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the bell peppers and red onion until just tender but still crisp. Let cool.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. Combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and fresh cilantro in the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

This Shrimp Fajita Pasta Salad serves about 6-8 people as a side dish or 4-6 people as a main dish.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time if desired)

Variations

• Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, steak, or tofu for different protein options.
• Add black beans, corn, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
• Use a spicy fajita seasoning or add jalapeños for a heat boost.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
• Top with shredded cheese or crumbled cotija for a cheesy twist.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, especially since it contains a creamy dressing. Refresh with a squeeze of lime or a spoonful of sour cream if needed before serving.

FAQs

Can I make shrimp fajita pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead. Add a fresh squeeze of lime before serving to brighten it up.

What pasta works best for fajita pasta salad?

Short, sturdy pastas like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold the dressing and mix-ins best.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but quickly sauté them with fajita seasoning to infuse more flavor before adding to the salad.

Is this salad spicy?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or using a spicier fajita mix.

How can I make it lighter?

Use light sour cream and mayonnaise, or substitute Greek yogurt for both.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or corn would be delicious additions.

How long can shrimp pasta salad sit out?

It should not sit out longer than 2 hours. Refrigerate promptly to keep it fresh and safe.

Can I grill the shrimp and vegetables?

Yes, grilling the shrimp and veggies will add a smoky flavor that’s perfect for this dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely, pat dry, and cook as directed.

What toppings go well with shrimp fajita pasta salad?

Sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of extra cilantro make great toppings.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fajita Pasta Salad is a lively, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any table. With juicy shrimp, crisp sautéed peppers, tender pasta, and a creamy, zesty dressing, it brings the festive flavors of fajitas to a cool and refreshing pasta salad. Perfect for any gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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