Flavor-Packed Pasta Salad with Shrimp and Crab
Looking for an easy, healthy, and delicious Pasta Salad recipe that not only supports your summer gatherings but also aligns with your overall well-being? This Seafood Pasta Salad is a nutritious, seafood-rich option loaded with tri-color rotini, shrimp, crab meat, and fresh veggies, all tossed in Olive Garden Italian dressing. Perfect for those aiming to maintain a balanced diet and enjoy the benefits of wellness under their health insurance plan.
Ingredients:
– 3 boxes of tri-color rotini pasta
– 3 small cucumbers, diced (rich in water content for hydration)
– 2 bags of large raw shrimp (a low-calorie protein source)
– 3 packs of crab meat (loaded with omega-3s and vital nutrients)
– 1 bunch of green onions, chopped (adds antioxidants and nutrients)
– 1 pack of cherry tomatoes, halved (great for heart health)
– 1 bottle of Olive Garden Italian dressing (choose low-fat for a healthier option)
– Salad Supreme seasoning (enhances flavor with minimal sodium)
– Old Bay seasoning and Complete Seasoning for shrimp
– 1 stick of butter (consider a light alternative to reduce fat)
Directions:
1. Cook the tri-color rotini according to package instructions. Drain and let cool. Whole-grain pasta options are available if you’re focusing on fiber for better digestion and health.
2. Peel and clean the raw shrimp, then season with Old Bay and Complete Seasoning. Shrimp provides lean protein, a key component for building muscle and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, often supported by health and wellness initiatives.
3. In a skillet, melt 1 stick of butter (or a healthier substitute like olive oil) and cook the shrimp until done, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced cucumbers, chopped green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, and crab meat. These fresh vegetables and seafood boost your intake of vitamins and minerals, helping to promote strong immunity.
5. Add the cooked shrimp and pour the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the salad. Opt for a low-sodium, low-fat dressing if you’re mindful of heart health, a common focus in many health insurance wellness plans.
6. Toss everything together and season with Salad Supreme to taste. Feel free to add more veggies or substitute with gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions or allergies covered under your insurance plan.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
