Name: Refreshing Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, cubed; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp lime juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

inesboulila a bowl of shrimp salad give me an image like this o 85f05468 5cb5 4836 a21c 4e5f19edd8e4

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Refreshing Shrimp Salad is light, zesty, and packed with fresh flavors. Perfect for warm weather, it’s a great option for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer. With juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a tangy citrus dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or impromptu gatherings. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for various diets.

Ingredients

shrimp, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp: If using raw shrimp, peel and devein them. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Chop the Vegetables: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and cube the avocado. Chop the fresh cilantro.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shrimp. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Add the Avocado: Carefully fold in the avocado to prevent it from getting mushy.
Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra cilantro and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
Citrus Twist: Swap lime juice for lemon or orange juice for a slightly different citrus profile.
Dairy Addition: Sprinkle in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent sogginess, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving. Avocado may brown over time, so consider adding it fresh when serving leftovers. Avoid reheating shrimp to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

How can I make this shrimp salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp, chop the vegetables, and make the dressing in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What are the best greens for this salad?

Mixed greens, arugula, or romaine lettuce work well for a fresh and crisp base.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Absolutely! Simply rinse and pat them dry before adding them to the salad.

What other dressings pair well with shrimp salad?

A balsamic vinaigrette, yogurt-based dressing, or even a spicy Thai-inspired dressing would complement the flavors well.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado in a little lime or lemon juice before adding it to the salad to slow down oxidation.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, just omit the honey or replace it with a keto-friendly sweetener.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just avoid adding cheese if using any variations.

What’s the best way to cook shrimp for this salad?

Boiling or grilling shrimp are the best options for a tender and flavorful result.

How can I add more protein?

You can increase the shrimp quantity or add boiled eggs, chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein.

Conclusion

This Refreshing Shrimp Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a protein-packed lunch, or a refreshing appetizer, this salad has it all. Try it today and enjoy the delicious combination of shrimp, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing!

Print