Dinner

Coastal Delight Seafood Pasta Salad Recipe

Bylina moretti August 8, 2026August 8, 2026

Introduction

Dive into the refreshing flavors of the Coastal Delight Seafood Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish that brings the seaside to your table. Combining fresh seafood, perfectly cooked linguine, and colorful vegetables, this salad is a perfect choice for picnics, barbecues, or light family dinners. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to impress both seafood lovers and those seeking a refreshing meal.

A white bowl filled with a colorful pasta shrimp salad sits on a white marbled textured surface. The bottom layer is a mix of yellow and orange short pasta pieces, with a soft and curly texture. On top, there are bright red tomato chunks and small green peas scattered evenly. The top layer consists of several pinkish-white grilled shrimp, speckled with black pepper and small green herbs, slightly curled and glistening with light oil. The dish has a fresh and vibrant look with contrasting colors and a mix of smooth and firm textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces fresh linguine pasta
12 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces fresh sea scallops
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, finely chopped
½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh linguine pasta and cook until al dente, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the pasta without rinsing and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and firm; remove from heat. Sear scallops for 2-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and tender. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Dice the red and yellow bell peppers. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the red onion. Add all chopped vegetables to the bowl with the pasta. Then add the cooked shrimp and scallops.
Step 4: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Add fresh chopped herbs and mix lightly. Let the salad rest covered at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

Use short pasta like rotini or fusilli if fresh linguine isn’t available; they hold dressing well.
Try a homemade lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, light dressing alternative.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like cucumbers or zucchini to enhance color and nutrition.
Add capers or olives for a briny contrast that highlights the seafood flavors.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference or occasion.
Fresh herbs such as dill or tarragon can provide a different aromatic twist.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 5 days, though fresh herbs and some vegetables may wilt slightly over time. For best texture, avoid adding dressing until just before serving if you plan to store it. Reheat is not recommended; serve cold or at room temperature to enjoy the salad’s fresh flavors.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad set against a white marbled texture, featuring three main layers: at the bottom, yellow and orange curly pasta shapes with a slightly glossy texture; in the middle, bright green peas and chopped leafy herbs scattered evenly; on top, several plump, seasoned shrimp with a light pink and white color, dotted with black pepper, accompanied by chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, giving the dish a fresh and vibrant look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What ingredients are essential for Coastal Delight Seafood Pasta Salad?

The key ingredients include fresh linguine, shrimp, scallops, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Italian dressing, and fresh herbs. These combine to create the salad’s characteristic coastal flavor and vibrant presentation.

How long does Coastal Delight Seafood Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it typically lasts 3 to 5 days. For best freshness, consume it within this timeframe and keep it chilled.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

You can substitute the seafood with plant-based options like marinated tofu or chickpeas and use a vegan Italian dressing. Also, choose vegan pasta to make the dish entirely plant-based.

Is it necessary to cook my pasta al dente?

Yes, cooking pasta al dente helps maintain a firm texture that holds up well in salads, preventing it from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing and other ingredients.

What type of dressing works best?

A light, tangy Italian dressing complements the seafood and vegetables beautifully without overpowering their flavors. Homemade lemon vinaigrette is also an excellent choice.

Can I use frozen seafood instead of fresh?

Frozen seafood can be used if fresh is not available, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting flavors.

lina moretti