This fresh cilantro shrimp salad is a burst of flavor with juicy shrimp and bright cilantro, all mixed with crunchy shallots. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a quick meal!
I love how the shrimp brings protein and the cilantro adds a zing! Serve it chilled for a refreshing lunch that feels fancy without the fuss. Who says healthy can’t be fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp is the star here. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works too—just thaw and drain well. For a twist, try adding grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a zesty flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using parsley or basil for a different but tasty herb alternative.
Shallots: They provide a mild, sweet onion flavor. If shallots aren’t available, red onions are a good substitute. Just use less, as they can be stronger in flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. In a pinch, bottled lime juice works, but fresh fruit is always better. You can switch it with lemon juice for a slight twist.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward. You want them tender and not rubbery. Here’s how I do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this helps season the shrimp.
- Add the shrimp and cook for just 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Drain them quickly and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps them juicy.
Follow these steps for perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your salad!
Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend 5-10 minutes cooking the shrimp and chopping vegetables, and you can either serve it right away or let it chill for about 30 minutes if you prefer a cooler dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, add the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them; they cook quickly! After they’re done, drain the shrimp and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, and a sprinkling of salt and pepper. This will give your salad a zesty and sweet flavor. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if you’d like!
3. Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shrimp, chopped cilantro, sliced shallots, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced avocado. If you like a little heat, toss in the finely chopped jalapeño as well.
4. Dress and Toss:
Pour your homemade dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure all the ingredients get coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Adjust and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad, and if needed, sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. You can serve it right away, or for even better flavor, cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help all the delicious flavors meld together!
Enjoy this bright and fresh shrimp salad as a light lunch or appetizer! It’s colorful, healthy, and packed with flavor! 🌿🍤🥗
FAQ for Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, cook as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can easily substitute it with parsley or basil. Both herbs will add a fresh taste to the salad, though the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but you can give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors again. Enjoy it cold for a quick meal or snack!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance! Make the shrimp and dressing ahead of time and mix everything together just before serving to keep the vegetables and avocado fresh and vibrant.
