Mediterranean Shrimp & Pasta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Shrimp & Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 14 to 16 ounces (400 to 450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon (6 g) lemon zest; Olive oil, for cooking; ⅓ cup (80 ml) extra-virgin olive oil; ¼ cup (60 ml) white balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon (20 g) pure honey or maple syrup, or more to taste; 1 tablespoon (20 g) pure honey or maple syrup, or more to taste; 1 tablespoon (11 g) Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste; Salt and pepper, to taste; 6 to 8 cups (300 to 400 g) chopped romaine lettuce; 1 cup (75 g) whole grain or gluten-free pasta, cooked al dente; 1 cup (75 g) whole grain or gluten-free pasta, cooked al dente; ¼ medium head red cabbage, shredded; 1 cup (150 g) grape tomatoes, halved; 1 large cucumber, seeded and cubed; 1 orange bell pepper, cored and diced; ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced; 1 Granny Smith apple, diced; ½ cup (75 g) black olives, pitted and sliced; ¼ cup (30 g) toasted almonds, chopped or slivered (optional); ¼ cup (38 g) crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Preparation info

yield:
4
servings

Difficulty
Easy
Ready in
35 min

Appears in

The Build Your Bowl Salad Cookbook

By Nina Cherie Franklin

Published 2025

About

Indulge in the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with this protein-packed shrimp and pasta salad, inspired by coastal regions where simple, wholesome ingredients shine.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

14 to 16 ounces (400 to 450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon

Fish course
Pescatarian
Gluten-free

Method

Cook the Shrimp

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the seasonings until evenly coated. Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Set aside to cool.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, sha