Updated on October 4th, 2025
This shrimp cold salad recipe is a refreshing choice when you want something light yet filling for summer gatherings or family meals. The pasta blends with shrimp, green onion, tomato, and green pepper, and the creamy Italian dressing with parmesan ties everything together. Chilling the salad makes it even more enjoyable since the flavors come together in a cool and satisfying way. It is simple to prepare, easy to share, and a dish that always works well for many occasions.
Why this recipe works
- Flavor mix: The shrimp, pasta, and fresh vegetables combine with the creamy dressing, creating a dish where every bite is balanced and full of taste.
- Simple steps: Using precooked shrimp allows you to make this salad quickly while still ending up with a dish that tastes fresh and homemade.
- Refreshing quality: Serving the salad chilled improves the flavor while making it a cool and enjoyable dish for warm days or outdoor meals.
- Everyday ingredients: With pasta, shrimp, vegetables, and pantry staples for the dressing, this salad is simple yet brings a lot of satisfying flavor.
- Flexible option: You can switch shrimp for imitation crab or adjust the type of Italian dressing, making it easy to prepare it to your liking.

Serving suggestions
- Cookout favorite: This shrimp cold salad can be served alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or burgers, giving your meal a cool and refreshing side.
- Family dinner: Pair the salad with garlic bread or roasted vegetables, turning it into a balanced meal that everyone at the table can enjoy.
- Picnic ready: Pack it in a cooler with fresh fruit and drinks, and you’ll have an easy dish that holds up well outside.
- Potluck dish: Bring this salad to gatherings since it can be prepared ahead of time and served straight from the fridge without reheating.
- Quick lunch: Keep a chilled portion in the refrigerator so you have a ready-to-eat lunch that is light but still filling.
Shrimp cold salad recipe
Shrimp cold salad recipe with pasta, veggies, and creamy dressing makes a refreshing side dish for summer cookouts or an easy chilled meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Italian salad dressing
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces small precooked shrimp (thawed)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped tomato
Instructions
- In a large bowl whisk together mayonnaise, Italian salad dressing, and parmesan cheese. Add in the pasta, shrimp, green onion, green pepper, and tomato, Mix well.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 454
- Sugar: 3.8 g
- Sodium: 486.1 mg
- Fat: 22.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 37.3 g
- Protein: 24.7 g
- Cholesterol: 150.5 mg