Shrimp and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of your favorite pasta
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 pound peeled, cooked shrimp
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cucumber, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 green onions, white and green parts, sliced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 fresh peach, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Cajun seasoning to taste

Directions

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in the pasta and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 10 minutes, or according to package directions.
2. Drain the pasta, rinse it with cold water, and let it cool to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
3. While the pasta is cooling, place the bacon in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels, and once cool enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, crumbled bacon, red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, green onions, mayonnaise, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and peach. Toss everything together until well mixed.
5. Taste the salad and season with Cajun seasoning to your liking.
6. Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	588
Total Fat	38g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	186mg
Sodium	1692mg
Total Carbohydrate	33g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	27g
Vitamin C	76mg
Calcium	100mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	490mg

Servings Per Recipe: 6

This Shrimp and Bacon Pasta Salad is a flavorful dish that perfectly blends the rich taste of bacon and shrimp with the fresh, crisp vegetables and creamy dressing. It is a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal, or as a refreshing side for any summer cookout or gathering.

History of the Dish

The origins of pasta salad can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States, where pasta became a popular base for salads due to its versatility and ability to absorb dressings well. Adding seafood, particularly shrimp, and bacon, which has long been a favorite ingredient in American cuisine, makes this particular dish a delightful and modern variation. Though there are numerous regional adaptations of pasta salads across the globe, the combination of shrimp and bacon adds a savory twist that is uniquely American.

Regional Variations

In different parts of the United States, pasta salads are often customized with local ingredients. In the Southern U.S., for instance, it is not uncommon to see pasta salads that incorporate crawfish or crab instead of shrimp, reflecting the regions abundant seafood resources. Additionally, some Southern versions might add a kick of heat with ingredients like spicy mustard or hot sauce, creating a more robust flavor profile. While this shrimp and bacon pasta salad is a popular dish for summer gatherings, its especially well-loved in coastal areas where fresh seafood is readily available.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets shrimp and bacon pasta salad apart from other similar dishes, like the traditional macaroni salad or tuna pasta salad, is its combination of both seafood and crispy bacon. Many classic pasta salads focus on vegetables and mayonnaise-based dressings, but the addition of shrimp provides a light, slightly sweet contrast to the salty and savory bacon. The texture of the crispy bacon bits also adds a satisfying crunch that is missing in more standard pasta salad varieties.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is a popular option for outdoor events such as barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. Its versatility also makes it a great choice for lunch or dinner during warm weather months. Due to its refreshing ingredients, it can be served as a main dish for a light meal or as a side to grilled meats or seafood. In some households, it even makes an appearance at holiday gatherings like Fourth of July or Memorial Day, where it complements other classic American dishes such as burgers and hot dogs.

Fun Facts

• The bacon in this pasta salad adds not only a crispy texture but also a smoky depth of flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
• While pasta salad recipes have evolved over the years, this version, with its mix of fruits and vegetables like peach and cherry tomatoes, is a modern twist that embraces the growing trend of using fresh, seasonal produce.
• Mayonnaise, often used as a base for pasta salads, was originally created in the 18th century in France, but it quickly became a staple in American kitchens, especially for dishes like coleslaw and pasta salad.
• Interestingly, the combination of shrimp and bacon is often used in other culinary creations, from pasta dishes to tacos, showcasing how these two ingredients complement each other in different cuisines.

FAQ about Shrimp and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe