This Easy Greek Shrimp Salad combines juicy shrimp with crunchy fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. Toss in some feta cheese and a zesty dressing for a tasty meal!
It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for hot days! I love making it for lunch, and my favorite part? The shrimp gets to chill out in the dressing—a perfect way to soak up all those yummy flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp is the star of this salad. If you can’t find pre-cooked shrimp, you can quickly sauté raw shrimp in garlic and olive oil for about 3-5 minutes until they turn pink.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, you could use regular diced tomatoes, though the cherry variety is more flavorful.
Cucumber: Crisp cucumbers give the salad a nice crunch. For a twist, try using a Persian cucumber, which has fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Kalamata Olives: These olives provide a briny bite. If you prefer, green olives or black olives can work as substitutes.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that creamy texture and salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs elevate this dish. You can switch it up with fresh dill or mint for different flavor notes.
How Do You Properly Combine the Ingredients for Best Flavor?
Getting the right mix of flavors in your salad is key. Here’s how to build it for maximum taste:
- Start with the base ingredients (shrimp, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives) and gently mix in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing in a separate bowl to keep it fresh until you’re ready to serve.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad a little at a time, tossing gently to coat all the ingredients without breaking the shrimp or crumbling the feta too much.
- Letting it sit in the fridge for a bit is crucial. This chilling time allows flavors to meld beautifully for a more satisfying dish!
Easy Greek Shrimp Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an extra 15-20 minutes to chill in the fridge before serving. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley. Use a large spoon to gently toss these ingredients together so they mix well without breaking the shrimp.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will add a bright flavor to the salad!
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the shrimp and veggie mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Take care not to break up the shrimp or crumble the feta too much.
4. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Give it one last gentle toss to distribute the cheese throughout the salad.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors come together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the salad is chilled, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy this light, delicious salad as a refreshing lunch or dinner on a warm day. Dig in!
Can I Use Fresh Raw Shrimp Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re using raw shrimp, you’ll need to sauté them first. Cook them in a little garlic and olive oil for about 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Let them cool before adding them to the salad.
How Long Can I Store This Salad in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the veggies may become a bit softer over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately ahead of time. Toss them together just before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh!
What Are Some Good Protein Alternatives for This Salad?
If you want to switch up the protein, grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas can be excellent substitutes. Just make sure they are seasoned well for added flavor!
