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Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Pasta Salad

Close-up of Spicy Cajun Pasta Salad featuring seasoned shrimp, sliced andouille sausage, and bell peppers mixed with rotini pasta.

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A cold, spicy Cajun pasta salad featuring shrimp and andouille sausage, perfect for potlucks and BBQs.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 pound cooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Creole mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Creole mustard, apple cider vinegar, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to make the dressing.
  3. In a separate skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the sliced andouille sausage until heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a very large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, browned sausage, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, celery, red onion, and parsley.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, taste and add more Cajun seasoning or salt if needed. Serve cold.

Notes

  • You can dust the shrimp and sausage lightly with extra Cajun seasoning before adding them to the salad for more intense flavor.
  • This salad travels well when kept cool; use an insulated container for picnics or potlucks.
  • If you prefer a tangier dressing, substitute Dijon mustard for the Creole mustard.

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