The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe – Fresh, Creamy & Easy to Make

Shrimp salad is a light, refreshing, and protein-packed dish, but not all recipes are created equal. If you’re looking for the best shrimp salad recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This dish combines succulent shrimp with crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it perfect for summer lunches, healthy dinners, or even meal prepping for the week.

Unlike heavy seafood dishes, shrimp salad is versatile and customizable—you can make it creamy, tangy, spicy, or even low-carb! Whether served on a sandwich, in lettuce wraps, or as a side dish, this easy-to-make salad will become one of your go-to recipes.

Why The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe is a Perfect Dish

Shrimp salad is not just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrition and versatility. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Healthy and Nutritious

Shrimp is low in calories, high in protein, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. It’s also a good source of:

• Vitamin B12 (boosts energy and brain function)
• Selenium (a powerful antioxidant)
• Iodine (supports thyroid health)

Adding fresh veggies and a light dressing makes this salad a balanced and wholesome meal.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

Unlike complex seafood dishes, shrimp salad comes together in under 20 minutes. With just a few simple steps—cooking the shrimp, chopping veggies, and mixing the dressing—you have a gourmet dish ready in no time.

3. Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about shrimp salad is how easily it can be adjusted to fit your diet and taste:

• Make it creamy with mayo or Greek yogurt.
• Go low-carb by skipping bread and serving in lettuce wraps.
• Spice it up with Cajun seasoning or hot sauce.
• Add a Mediterranean twist with olives and feta cheese.

No matter your preference, shrimp salad can be tailored to your liking!

Choosing the Best Shrimp salad Recipe for Your Salad

Shrimp is the star ingredient of this salad, so choosing the right type is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here’s everything you need to know about selecting, preparing, and handling shrimp before making your salad.

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Which is Better?

When buying shrimp, you’ll usually find two options: fresh or frozen.

• Fresh Shrimp:
  • Often marketed as “fresh,” but may have been previously frozen.
  • Check for a mild, ocean-like scent—avoid any shrimp that smells fishy or ammonia-like.
  • Should have a firm texture and a slightly translucent color.
• Frozen Shrimp:
  • Surprisingly, frozen shrimp is often fresher than “fresh” shrimp, as it’s flash-frozen shortly after being caught.
  • Available peeled, deveined, and tail-on or tail-off, making prep easier.
  • Best choice for convenience and longer shelf life.

✅ Winner: If possible, go for high-quality frozen shrimp and thaw it properly before use.

2. Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised Shrimp

Another important factor is whether the shrimp is wild-caught or farm-raised.

• Wild-Caught Shrimp:
  • Harvested from oceans, rivers, or lakes.
  • Has a firmer texture and richer taste.
  • Eco-friendly option when sourced sustainably.
• Farm-Raised Shrimp:
  • Grown in controlled environments.
  • Often more affordable and readily available but can lack the depth of flavor of wild shrimp.
  • Some farms use antibiotics or chemicals—check for “sustainably farmed” labels.

✅ Winner: If budget allows, opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best taste and quality.

3. What Size Shrimp Should You Use?

Shrimp comes in different sizes, labeled by count per pound. Here’s a guide to help you choose:

✅ Winner: For shrimp salad, large (21-25 count) shrimp work best—they’re flavorful, easy to cook, and hold their shape well.

4. How to Properly Thaw Frozen Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, proper thawing is essential to maintain the best texture:

1. Overnight Method (Best Option):
   • Place frozen shrimp in a sealed bag and let it thaw in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours.
2. Quick-Thaw Method (If You’re Short on Time):
   • Place frozen shrimp in a colander under cold running water for 10-15 minutes.
   • Pat dry with paper towels before using.

❌ Avoid thawing shrimp in warm water or the microwave, as it can lead to uneven cooking and a rubbery texture.

5. How to Peel and Devein Shrimp (If Needed)

Some shrimp come unpeeled or with their veins intact. Here’s how to clean them:

• To Peel: Hold the shrimp at the tail and gently remove the shell by pulling from the legs upward.
• To Devein: Use a small knife to make a shallow cut along the back, then pull out the dark vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick.

✅ Tip: You can leave the tails on for presentation, but for a salad, it’s best to remove them for easy eating.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Salad Recipe

Now that you’ve selected the perfect shrimp, it’s time to focus on the other key ingredients that make this shrimp salad delicious, refreshing, and well-balanced. Below is a breakdown of everything you need, from fresh vegetables to the creamy dressing that ties it all together.

1. Key Ingredients for Shrimp Salad

🔹 Shrimp (The Star Ingredient)

Since we’ve already covered how to choose shrimp, remember:
✅ Use large (21-25 count) shrimp for the best bite.
✅ Cook them with simple seasonings for a well-balanced flavor.

🔹 Crisp, Fresh Vegetables

A great shrimp salad is all about texture and freshness. These vegetables provide crunch and color:

• Romaine Lettuce – Adds a crisp, refreshing base. You can also use spinach or mixed greens.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Their natural sweetness balances the savory shrimp. Cut them in halves for easy eating.
• Red Onion – Adds a slight bite and enhances flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, soak slices in water for 10 minutes.
• Cucumber – Adds coolness and crunch, making the salad more refreshing.
• Celery – Traditional in shrimp salads, it provides a nice crisp texture.
• Avocado (Optional) – Adds creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.

✅ Tip: Chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces so every forkful has a perfect mix of flavors.

🔹 Flavor Boosters (Optional Add-ins)

To make the salad even more flavorful and exciting, consider adding:

• Diced bell peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Feta or goat cheese – A creamy, tangy contrast.
• Capers or pickles – For a briny, salty kick.
• Nuts or seeds – Sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds add a nice crunch.

2. The Perfect Shrimp Salad Recipe Dressing

The dressing is what brings the entire salad together. Below are three dressing options, so you can choose based on your preference:

🔹 Classic Creamy Dressing (Most Popular)

This rich and tangy dressing complements the shrimp perfectly:
Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

🔹 Lighter Dressing Alternative (Vinaigrette-Based)
For a healthier and fresher shrimp salad, try a vinaigrette:
Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

🔹 Spicy Cajun Dressing (For Heat Lovers)
For a bold, spicy twist, add Cajun flavors:
Ingredients:

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

Tip: Always chill the dressing for at least 10 minutes before adding it to the salad—it helps the flavors meld together.

3. Fresh Herbs & Garnishes

To add brightness and extra layers of flavor, don’t forget to garnish your salad with:
Fresh parsley or cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness.
Lemon zest – Enhances the citrus notes in the dressing.
Cracked black pepper – A simple but effective finishing touch.

How to Cook Shrimp for the Perfect Salad

Cooking shrimp the right way is essential for a juicy, flavorful, and tender shrimp salad. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery and tough, while undercooking can make them unsafe to eat. In this section, we’ll cover the best cooking methods, seasoning tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

1. Key Tips for Cooking Shrimp

✅ Use Large Shrimp – Shrimp labeled 21-25 count per pound are ideal for salads since they are meaty and hold their texture well.

✅ Don’t Overcook! – Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a “C” shape.

✅ Season Before Cooking – Adding simple spices like Old Bay, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhances their natural flavor.

✅ Cook Shrimp Right Before Serving – Freshly cooked shrimp taste better, but if prepping ahead, keep them chilled in the fridge until ready to use.

2. Best Cooking Methods for Shrimp Salad

🔹 1. Sautéing (Best for Flavor & Quick Cooking)

This method locks in the seasoning and adds a slight char for a delicious taste.

✅ Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for added brightness.

✅ Best For: Warm shrimp salad or adding a slight crisp texture.

🔹 2. Boiling (Quick & Simple Method)

Boiling is a fast way to cook shrimp while keeping them juicy and tender.

✅ Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
3. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking.
4. Pat dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

✅ Best For: Cold shrimp salad or meal prepping.

🔹 3. Grilling (Adds a Smoky, Charred Flavor)

Grilled shrimp take the salad to another level with a delicious smoky taste.

✅ Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. Toss shrimp in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling.
4. Grill for 2 minutes per side until slightly charred and pink.

✅ Best For: Outdoor summer shrimp salads with a grilled, smoky flavor.

🔹 4. Baking (Great for Large Batches)

If you’re cooking shrimp for a large group, baking is an easy hands-off method.

✅ Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place shrimp on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp turn pink.

✅ Best For: Feeding a crowd or prepping ahead of time.

3. The Best Seasonings for Shrimp Salad

While shrimp have a naturally sweet and briny flavor, seasoning them properly enhances their taste. Here are a few seasoning ideas:

• Classic: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
• Spicy Cajun: Old Bay seasoning, cayenne, paprika, and a dash of hot sauce.
• Mediterranean: Olive oil, oregano, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon.
• Asian-Inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of honey.

✅ Tip: Even if you prefer a lightly seasoned shrimp, always add a little salt—it enhances the natural shrimp flavor.

4. How to Keep Cooked Shrimp Fresh for Your Salad

If you’re prepping shrimp in advance, here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Cool Quickly: If serving cold, immediately transfer shrimp to an ice bath after cooking.
• Store Properly: Keep cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Avoid Freezing Cooked Shrimp: They can become mushy when thawed.

✅ Tip: Always add shrimp to the salad right before serving to keep their texture perfect.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Shrimp Salad Recipe

Now that we’ve cooked the shrimp to perfection, it’s time to assemble the best shrimp salad recipe. This step-by-step guide will ensure your shrimp salad is fresh, flavorful, and well-balanced.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create the best shrimp salad recipe with juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a deliciously creamy or tangy dressing. Whether you’re making this shrimp salad recipe for a quick lunch or a dinner party, every bite will be bursting with flavor.

Get ready to enjoy the best shrimp salad recipe, packed with high-quality ingredients and the perfect combination of textures. Let’s assemble this shrimp salad recipe step by step!

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Before assembling the salad, make sure you have:

Cooked and cooled shrimp (sautéed, boiled, grilled, or baked)
Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, and red onion)
Dressing (classic creamy dressing, vinaigrette, or spicy Cajun dressing)
Optional add-ins (avocado, feta cheese, capers, nuts, or boiled eggs)
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, cilantro, or dill)

2. Chop & Prepare the Vegetables

🟢 Lettuce: Chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce (or mixed greens) into bite-sized pieces.
🔴 Tomatoes: Slice 1 cup of cherry tomatoes in halves for natural sweetness.
🟣 Red Onion: Thinly slice ½ cup of red onion for a sharp contrast in flavor.
Cucumber: Dice ½ cup of cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Celery: Finely chop ¼ cup of celery to add a crisp texture.
🟢 Avocado (Optional): Dice ¼ cup of avocado for creaminess.

✅ Tip: If you don’t like the strong taste of raw red onions, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

3. Prepare the Dressing

Depending on your preference, choose one of these dressings:

🔹 Classic Creamy Dressing (Most Popular)

✅ Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

✅ Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Chill for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

4. Assemble the Salad

Now, it’s time to bring everything together!

1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, add all the chopped vegetables.
2️⃣ Add the cooked shrimp (chilled or slightly warm).
3️⃣ Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4️⃣ Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or dill).
5️⃣ Optional: Top with crumbled feta, boiled eggs, or nuts for extra texture.

✅ Tip: If making the salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

5. Best Ways to Serve The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe

Shrimp salad is versatile and can be served in different ways:

🥗 As a Classic Salad: Serve it in a bowl as a light, refreshing meal.
🥪 In a Sandwich: Spoon the salad into a toasted baguette or croissant for a shrimp salad sandwich.
🌮 In Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a low-carb option.
🍞 On Crackers or Toast: Spread the shrimp salad on whole-grain crackers or toast for an appetizer.
🍚 Over Rice or Quinoa: Turn it into a protein-packed grain bowl.

✅ Tip: If serving in a sandwich or wrap, chill the shrimp salad for 10-15 minutes before assembling—it helps the flavors meld together!

Variations of The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe & Final Tips

Now that you’ve mastered the best shrimp salad recipe, let’s explore delicious variations to suit different tastes and diets. Whether you love spicy flavors, Asian-inspired ingredients, or a keto-friendly option, there’s a version of the best shrimp salad recipe for everyone!

Each variation of this shrimp salad recipe enhances the classic dish with unique seasonings and ingredients while keeping the juicy shrimp and crisp vegetables at the heart of the meal. If you’re looking for a spicy twist, a Mediterranean-style shrimp salad, or a creamy, low-carb version, this guide will help you create the best shrimp salad recipe that perfectly matches your preferences.

From zesty Cajun flavors to light vinaigrettes and protein-packed keto options, this best shrimp salad recipe is completely customizable, healthy, and satisfying. Try one of these variations today and elevate your shrimp salad experience!

1. Delicious Variations of The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe

🔹 Spicy Cajun The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe (For Heat Lovers 🌶️)

🔥 This version packs bold and spicy flavors, perfect for those who love a little heat!

✅ Changes to the Recipe:

• Use Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay when cooking shrimp.
• Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Swap the dressing for a spicy Cajun dressing (mix Greek yogurt, lime juice, and Cajun seasoning).
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.

✅ Best Serving Option: Wrapped in soft flour tortillas as shrimp salad tacos!

🔹 Mediterranean Shrimp Salad (Fresh & Tangy 🇬🇷)

🌿 Inspired by Greek flavors, this variation adds briny, tangy ingredients for a fresh and flavorful twist.

✅ Changes to the Recipe:

• Swap romaine for arugula or spinach.
• Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
• Use a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing.
• Toss in toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.

✅ Best Serving Option: Serve with pita bread or in a Mediterranean-style bowl with quinoa.

🔹 Asian-Inspired The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe (Savory & Sweet 🍜)

🥢 This version features soy sauce, sesame, and ginger for a light yet flavorful salad.

✅ Changes to the Recipe:

• Use Napa cabbage instead of romaine for an Asian-style crunch.
• Add shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, and sliced bell peppers.
• Swap the dressing for an Asian sesame dressing (mix sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey).
• Top with sesame seeds and green onions.

✅ Best Serving Option: Serve in lettuce wraps or over cold rice noodles for a refreshing meal.

🔹 Keto & Low-Carb The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe (Healthy & Satisfying 🥑)

🥑 This version is creamy, high in protein, and perfect for keto dieters.

✅ Changes to the Recipe:

• Use full-fat mayonnaise for the dressing (no honey or sugar).
• Add more avocado for healthy fats.
• Use butter lettuce or cabbage wraps instead of bread.
• Skip the onions and tomatoes to keep carbs low.

✅ Best Serving Option: Enjoy in lettuce cups or stuffed into avocado halves for a keto-friendly meal.

2. Best Side Dishes for The Best Shrimp Salad Recipe

Pair your shrimp salad with the perfect side dishes for a complete meal!

🥖 Crusty Bread: A toasted baguette or garlic bread pairs beautifully.
🥣 Soup: A light seafood bisque or tomato soup complements the flavors.
🍚 Grains: Serve with quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a heartier dish.
🍷 Beverages: Pair with white wine (Sauvignon Blanc), iced tea, or citrus-infused water.

• Pair this shrimp salad with a side of Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls for a delicious meal.
• For a seafood feast, serve alongside Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken to balance flavors.
• Looking for a hearty companion? Try this dish with a Meatloaf Glaze Recipe to complete your meal.

Enjoy this simple yet delicious shrimp salad for a light and flavorful dining experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Makes Shrimp Taste Better?

Shrimp have a naturally sweet and briny flavor, but you can enhance their taste with the right seasoning, cooking method, and freshness.

Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp naturally have a more delicate and sweet taste. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are wild-caught and properly thawed.

Season Generously: Even simple seasonings like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or Old Bay seasoning can boost shrimp’s flavor.

Cook Quickly: Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery and lose their juiciness. Cook them for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Acid for Balance: A squeeze of lemon juice or lime right before serving enhances shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Marinate Before Cooking: Let shrimp sit in a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 10-15 minutes to soak up flavors before cooking.

2. What Goes Well in a Shrimp Salad?

Shrimp salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Here are the best additions:

🥗 Fresh Greens: Romaine, spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a crisp base.
🍅 Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, celery, and avocado add crunch and balance.
🧀 Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan for extra creaminess and saltiness.
🥑 Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, or nuts (almonds, walnuts) make the salad more satisfying.
🥚 Protein Boost: Hard-boiled eggs add richness and a creamy texture.
🍋 Dressings: Creamy mayo-based dressing, tangy vinaigrette, or a spicy Cajun sauce bring the salad together.

✅ Tip: Balance crunchy, creamy, and tangy elements for the best shrimp salad!

3. What Brings Out the Flavor of Shrimp?

To make shrimp taste even better, focus on seasoning, acidity, and cooking methods:

Salt & Seasoning: Shrimp absorb flavors well, so use garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, Old Bay seasoning, or cayenne for depth.

Acidic Ingredients: Lemon, lime, vinegar, or white wine balance shrimp’s natural sweetness and enhance flavor.

Garlic & Butter: A classic combination—garlic and butter intensify shrimp’s richness without overpowering it.

Umami Boosters: Adding a touch of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or Dijon mustard gives shrimp a savory depth.

Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, parsley, basil, or dill add a bright contrast to shrimp’s richness.

4. Why Do You Soak Shrimp in Baking Soda?

Soaking shrimp in baking soda and salt is a chef’s secret trick to improve their texture and flavor.

Makes Shrimp Plumper & Juicier: Baking soda alkalizes the shrimp’s surface, allowing them to hold moisture better during cooking.

Enhances Firmness & “Snap”: It tightens the proteins in the shrimp, making them firmer and giving them that restaurant-quality bite.

Neutralizes Fishy Odors: Baking soda removes any slight ammonia smell that older shrimp may have.

How to Do It:

1️⃣ Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of cold water.
2️⃣ Soak peeled shrimp for 15 minutes (don’t exceed 30 minutes).
3️⃣ Rinse thoroughly under cold water before cooking.

✅ Tip: This method is especially useful for pre-frozen or older shrimp, helping them retain a fresh, bouncy texture!

Conclusion

The best shrimp salad recipe is the perfect balance of freshness, flavor, and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for any meal. With its juicy, well-seasoned shrimp, crisp vegetables, and creamy or tangy dressing, this dish is both satisfying and light. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a refreshing summer dinner, or a potluck gathering, this best shrimp salad recipe is versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable.

By following the tips in this guide—choosing high-quality shrimp, seasoning properly, and using fresh ingredients—you can create the best shrimp salad recipe that’s packed with flavor and texture. Plus, with the variations provided, you can tailor this shrimp salad recipe to your taste, whether you prefer it spicy, Mediterranean-style, or keto-friendly.

Now It’s Your Turn!

Try this shrimp salad recipe today and enjoy a delicious, refreshing dish.
Experiment with different ingredients and find your favorite variation.
Share it with family and friends—it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Best Shrimp Salad Recipe – Fresh, Creamy & Easy to Make

This best shrimp salad recipe is a light, refreshing dish packed with juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a creamy homemade dressing. Perfect for summer lunches, healthy dinners, or meal prep, this salad is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or as a lettuce wrap!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 16 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan or skillet
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk
• Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients

  

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp 21-25 count, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or salt & black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Juice of half a lemon
• For the Salad:
• 2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• ½ cup red onion thinly sliced
• ½ cup cucumber diced
• ¼ cup celery finely chopped
• ¼ cup avocado diced (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
• For the Dressing:
• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
• In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over them, and let them cool slightly.
• Step 2: Prepare the Salad
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, celery, and avocado.
• Add the cooled shrimp to the salad.
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate shrimp for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add crumbled feta, hard-boiled eggs, or sliced almonds for extra texture.

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