This Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad is a tasty dish packed with juicy shrimp and fragrant cilantro. The crunchy shallots add a delightful twist that’s hard to resist!
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t help but munch on those crispy shallots! They make everything better, don’t you think? Enjoy it cold on a hot day—refreshing and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. I often choose large shrimp for a satisfying bite. If you’re seeking a substitute, feel free to use cooked crab or even canned tuna in a pinch!
Salad Greens: The mix of greens can vary. I love using arugula for its peppery flavor, but romaine or baby spinach are also great choices. If you can’t find these, any leafy green will do.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can be good substitutes, but they’ll change the flavor a bit. I recommend sticking with cilantro if you can!
Shallots: Shallots add a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, red onions or green onions can work too, just use them in smaller amounts since they have a stronger taste.
Avocado: Avocado gives creaminess to the salad. For allergies, try diced cucumber or even nuts like walnuts for some texture.
How Do You Cook Shrimp to Get Them Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s really about timing. Overcooking makes shrimp tough, so follow these simple tips:
- Use medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that pink color!
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they’re opaque to avoid overcooking.
- If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re all set to whip up a delicious Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like romaine, arugula, or baby spinach)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 red chili (optional), thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to cook the shrimp, toss together the ingredients, and make the delicious dressing. Perfect for a stylish meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp generously with salt and pepper. Add them to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook! Once done, take them off the heat and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
While the shrimp cool, grab a small bowl and whisk together the juice of 1 lime, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This dressing will add a zesty touch to your salad!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, roughly chopped cilantro, sliced shallots, cucumber, diced avocado, and the red chili slices if you decided to use them. This colorful mix will enhance the salad’s freshness!
4. Add the Shrimp:
Gently toss the cooked shrimp into the salad mixture. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the salad for a delightful bite in every spoonful.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine. Everyone loves a well-dressed salad!
6. Serve:
Divide the salad onto plates and serve immediately. For an extra pop of flavor and color, garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired. Enjoy this light, fresh, and flavorful shrimp salad perfect for warm days or as a healthy lunch!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture!
What Other Greens Can I Use?
While mixed salad greens are fantastic, you can substitute with any leafy greens like spinach, kale, or even coleslaw mix if you’re looking for a crunchy twist. Just ensure whatever greens you choose are fresh!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the shrimp and dressing separate from the greens so they don’t wilt. Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad. Popular additions include diced bell peppers, corn, or even nuts like sliced almonds for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that these will slightly change the flavor profile!
