This refreshing salad combines juicy watermelon and tender shrimp with a spicy twist. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for warm days when you want something light!
I love how the sweet watermelon balances the heat from the spices. Plus, it’s super quick to make, so I can whip it up and enjoy it on the porch while soaking up the sun! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is wonderful, but frozen shrimp works too! Just thaw them before cooking. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas for protein instead.
Watermelon: Look for ripe, sweet watermelon to boost flavor. You can swap it out for cantaloupe or honeydew if needed. They also add a nice sweetness!
Cucumber: English cucumbers are my go-to here since they’re crisp and have fewer seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers will do just fine. For a twist, try using jicama.
Jalapeños: These add a nice kick! If you prefer milder heat, try using bell peppers. For a bolder flavor, serrano peppers are a great substitute.
Peanuts: They add crunch, but if you’re allergic, try sunflower seeds, or omit them altogether. You can even use chopped cashews for a different flavor.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked shrimp can be tricky, so here are my tips. Cook them in a hot skillet to seal in their flavor and juices. Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and slightly curl. If they look rubbery, that’s a sign they’ve been overcooked!
- Pat the shrimp dry before marinating to get rid of excess moisture.
- Preheat the skillet well. It should be sizzling when the shrimp hit the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have a lot, cook in batches.
Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Marinade/Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or more for heat)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, which includes marinating the shrimp and chopping the veggies. It’s quick to put together and perfect for a light meal or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chili flakes, minced garlic, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper to blend into a marinade. This will give your shrimp a tasty kick!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Let the shrimp sit for about 10-15 minutes to soak up all those flavorful spices.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
While the shrimp is marinating, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and cooked through. Remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, and chopped cilantro. The colors will be so vibrant!
5. Add the Shrimp:
Place the cooked shrimp on top of the salad mixture. It’s looking fresh and inviting!
6. Drizzle with Marinade:
If you have any leftover marinade from the shrimp, drizzle it over the salad for added flavor. Yum!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top for a nice crunch, if using. Serve the salad immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your colorful, refreshing, and spicy salad that beautifully balances the sweetness of watermelon with savory shrimp and a delightful kick of spice!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use just one pepper. Alternatively, if you like it hot, feel free to double the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
For best flavor and texture, it’s best to serve this salad fresh. However, you can prepare the marinade and chop the veggies a few hours in advance. Just combine everything close to serving to keep the watermelon crisp!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The watermelon may release juices, so it’s best to keep the shrimp and salad components separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again!
