Shrimp and Mango Salad

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Use cooked shrimp for convenience. If you prefer cooking from scratch, opt for fresh shrimp and sauté or boil it until pink. For a different flavor, try grilled shrimp or even replace it with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Mango: A ripe, sweet mango adds flavor. If you can’t find mango, fresh peaches or pineapple chunks are great alternatives. In winter, canned mango or frozen works well too; just ensure they’re thawed and drained before using.

Avocado: I love how creamy avocado is in this salad. If you’re not a fan or need a substitute, consider using diced cucumber for crunch. Note that you can also leave it out altogether, but it adds great texture.

Salad Greens: Mixed greens provide color and nutrition. Feel free to swap for your favorites like romaine, kale, or spinach. If using kale, massage it with a bit of olive oil first for a softer texture.

What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Dressing?

Making the dressing is simple but key to pulling the flavors together. Here’s how to do it:

• In a jar or bowl, add olive oil, fresh lime juice, honey (or agave), and minced garlic.
• Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
• If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
• Shake or whisk until everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

This dressing is bright and zesty, enhancing the sweetness of the mango and the savory shrimp. Be sure to mix it just before serving for the best flavor!

Shrimp and Mango Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced or sliced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, and red leaf lettuce)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This vibrant shrimp and mango salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick option for a light lunch or dinner. With the dressing prepared in just a few minutes, you can have everything ready to enjoy in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix together the salad greens, diced mango, diced avocado, cooked shrimp, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Be sure to distribute the ingredients evenly so every bite is packed with flavor!

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or a jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and smooth.

3. Assemble the Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are coated in that zesty dressing.

4. Add the Final Touches:

If you like, sprinkle some toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top for an extra crunch. They add a delightful texture and a nutty flavor!

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Enjoy your shrimp and mango salad immediately for the freshest flavors! This dish is not only pretty but delicious and healthy too—it’s the perfect way to celebrate a sunny day!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, peel and devein if necessary, and they’re ready to go!

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

While the salad is best served fresh, you can prep some components in advance. Chop the mango, avocado, and vegetables, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the avocado and mango may brown slightly. You can add a squeeze of lime juice to help minimize browning before storing.

What Other Ingredients Can I Add?

Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch. You can also substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a different twist!