This bright and zesty shrimp salad brings together fresh cilantro, crunchy shallots, and juicy shrimp for a delicious meal. It’s perfect for warm days or whenever you need a tasty pick-me-up!
Making this salad is a breeze! I love tossing everything together and feeling like a chef in my own kitchen. You can’t go wrong with such fresh flavors! 🌿🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp makes this salad quick and easy. If you can’t find cooked shrimp, you can quickly sauté raw shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Frozen shrimp is also a great option—just thaw it beforehand!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this salad a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley for a milder taste or even fresh mint for a unique twist.
Shallots: Shallots are sweeter than regular onions, adding a lovely depth. You can substitute with red onions, but use a smaller amount as they are stronger in flavor.
Avocado: Adding avocado gives creaminess to the salad. If you’re avoiding it, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of extra lime juice can add some zest.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh will always give that lively flavor. You can also use lemon juice if limes aren’t available.
How Do I Get the Right Texture When Preparing This Salad?
Getting the textures just right in this salad is important for enjoyment! Here are some tips:
- Ensure the cucumber is diced into small, even pieces so it mixes well with the shrimp and other veggies.
- Slice the shallots thinly to distribute their flavor throughout the salad without overwhelming it.
- If using avocado, add it last to prevent it from getting mushy. Gently fold it in for the best texture!
- Serving it chilled allows flavors to meld and provides a refreshing bite on a warm day. Just don’t let it sit too long with the dressing or the veggies may lose their crunch.
Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to chill it for 20-30 minutes before serving, you’ll allow the flavors to blend nicely. Overall, it’s a quick and delightful dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shrimp, chopped cilantro, thinly sliced shallots, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and avocado if you’re using it. If you like a little spice, sprinkle in the finely chopped jalapeño.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and the dressing is smooth.
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Using a spatula or spoon, gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
4. Season and Taste:
Take a moment to taste the salad! You can adjust the flavor by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice based on your preference.
5. Serve or Chill:
For the freshest flavor, serve the salad immediately. If you prefer, you can chill it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Just before serving, you can sprinkle a few extra cilantro leaves on top for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your fresh and tangy shrimp salad—it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp before using it. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, add more jalapeño or include some diced serrano peppers. You could also incorporate a splash of hot sauce into the dressing. Adjust to your heat preference!
Is There a Vegan Option for This Salad?
Certainly! You can replace the shrimp with marinated and grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, and consider adding more veggies or beans to enhance the dish!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh if possible!
