There’s nothing quite like the comforting, creamy taste of a seafood pasta dish bursting with juicy shrimp and sweet crab. Imagine twirling your fork through tender pasta coated in a tangy, luscious sauce, with every bite transporting you to the breezy seaside. This Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is a recipe that always takes center stage at family gatherings—simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes! Did you know that shrimp and crab were considered royal delicacies in many coastal regions? Luckily, this recipe brings that gourmet flavor right to your kitchen, without the hefty price tag or complicated steps. Much like my ever-popular Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and fancy enough for special occasions. So, gather your family, get those pots boiling, and let’s create a meal that’s sure to impress—one hearty, flavor-packed forkful at a time!
What is Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab?
Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab—a name that pretty much tells you everything up front, right? It’s as if someone asked, “How can we fit the ocean into a bowl of pasta?” and this dish was the answer. Ever wondered why so many great recipes have such straightforward names? Maybe it’s because there’s no need to hide a winning combination. As the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this creamy, seafood-packed pasta is surely up to the task. Try it for yourself and see if you don’t fall hook, line, and sinker for its irresistible charm!
Why You’ll Love This
First of all, this dish boasts a flavor explosion—you get juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp, tender chunks of crab, crisp vegetables, and a zesty, creamy sauce that ties everything together. Making it at home not only satisfies those seafood cravings but also saves you a bundle compared to dining out. Want a little extra pizzazz? The fresh cherry tomatoes, crunchy celery, and zing of Dijon mustard elevate this pasta above the rest. Similar to my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta but with a coastal twist, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Ready to shake up your dinner routine? Gather your ingredients and dive into this easy, delicious meal tonight!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is as easy as it is delicious. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few quick steps, you’ll have a dish that’s restaurant-worthy and ready in about 25 minutes! The creamy dressing, bright hints of lemon, and delicate seafood make it absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll love how this recipe comes together quickly for a dinner that looks—and tastes—impressive.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini, penne, or your preferred pasta
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup crab meat (fresh or canned, well-drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step
-
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Seafood
If your shrimp isn’t already cooked, sauté or boil it for 2–3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Drain well. If using canned crab, drain thoroughly; if using fresh, pick through to remove any shell fragments. -
Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. -
Add Veggies and Seafood
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in chopped celery, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, cooked shrimp, and crab meat. -
Combine and Chill
Mix everything together gently to coat the pasta and seafood with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Serve
Give the pasta a good toss before serving. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or lemon zest for color and brightness.
What to Serve Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab With
This pasta salad shines beautifully alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to sop up the creamy dressing. For a more complete meal, serve it with a citrusy white wine or a sparkling lemonade. Roasted asparagus, grilled vegetables, or even a simple fruit salad would make refreshing side options, balancing the richness of the seafood pasta.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use fresh shrimp and quality crab meat for the best flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be al dente to hold up against the creamy sauce.
- For added spice, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Taste as you go! Adjust lemon juice, salt, and mustard to brighten up the flavors.
- If making ahead, reserve a little extra dressing to toss through just before serving, as the pasta may absorb some moisture during chilling.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because this dish is mayo-based, it isn’t ideal for freezing, as the texture can become watery. If the pasta seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a little extra mayo or a splash of lemon juice before serving. This recipe is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it slightly warm, gently heat individual portions in the microwave at low power, stirring halfway through to avoid overcooking the seafood.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of seafood?
Absolutely! Substitute or add cooked scallops, lobster, or even firm white fish for a fun twist.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It’s typically served cold, similar to a pasta salad, but you can enjoy it slightly warm if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just give it a stir before serving and refresh with a bit more dressing if the pasta has absorbed too much.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety and double-check that your mayonnaise and mustard are gluten-free.
What should I do if I don’t like celery or onion?
Feel free to omit them or swap in other crunchy veggies like bell pepper or diced cucumber for a different texture.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious, easy Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab that brings vibrant coastal flavors straight to your table. With simple prep, affordable ingredients, and a creamy, tangy sauce that makes every bite irresistible, this recipe is perfect for both casual lunches and impressing guests at dinner. If you enjoyed this dish, be sure to check out other seafood and pasta recipes on the blog for even more mealtime inspiration. Dive in, try it out, and let your taste buds take a little vacation—no special occasion needed!