This Fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad is a colorful mix of shrimp, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a sunny day!
Who doesn’t love a salad that feels like a vacation? With the bold flavors of olives and a zesty dressing, this salad is a treat without the fuss. I enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work well too; just make sure to thaw them properly. I often use shrimp that’s peeled and deveined to save time.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor, but you can use regular olive oil if that’s what you have. Some people like using avocado oil for a different taste and high smoking point.
Dried Oregano: This herb is key for Greek flavors. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. I personally love the depth oregano brings to this shrimp salad!
Feta Cheese: Traditional feta gives a creamy finish. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free feta or omit it altogether. You can sprinkle some nuts for added crunch.
Kalamata Olives: They add a nice salty bite, but if you prefer a milder taste, green olives work too. If you’re not a fan of olives, you can skip them, though I think they really enhance the salad.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s simple with the right approach! Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding shrimp; this helps them sear quickly.
- Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they change color and become opaque. Be careful not to overcook; they’ll get tough.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done! Letting them sit can continue to cook them, so you want to catch them at the right moment.
Fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, and spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for a light lunch or dinner, plus you’ll spend time enjoying it without any long waits!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well coated. This will bring fantastic flavor to the shrimp!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep a close eye, as shrimp cook quickly! Once done, remove them from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper to your liking. It should have a zesty kick!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked shrimp to your salad bowl, drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss gently. Be careful not to break the shrimp or feta!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your salad immediately, and enjoy the freshness and vibrant flavors of this Greek-style shrimp salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Make This Salad Even Healthier?
You can add more veggies to boost the nutritional content, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or avocado. Additionally, using less feta can lower the calorie count while still keeping great flavor in the dish!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy greens. You can prepare the shrimp and chop the veggies in advance, then assemble everything right before serving for maximum freshness.
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. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the salad’s crispness.