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Garlic Herb Shrimp Protein Pasta Salad - Fresh, Flavorful, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-enriched wheat pasta; shapes like rotini or penne work well)
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced or minced
  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or torn)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan (optional)
  • 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained (optional for extra protein and texture)

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop cooking. Shake off excess water and toss with 1 teaspoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and half the minced garlic.
  3. Sear the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon, honey, remaining garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness.
  5. Chop the veg and herbs: Halve tomatoes, dice cucumber, and slice onion. Chop parsley, dill, and basil.
  6. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chickpeas (if using). Pour over the dressing and toss gently to coat.
  7. Add herbs and cheese: Fold in parsley, dill, basil, and feta or Parmesan. Season with more salt, pepper, or lemon to taste.
  8. Chill or serve: You can serve right away at room temperature or chill 20–30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Give it a quick toss before serving.