This Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad is zesty and light, featuring tender shrimp, fresh cilantro, and crispy shallots. It’s a perfect mix of flavors that makes every bite refreshing!
Honestly, who can resist shrimp and cilantro together? I love how the shallots add a nice crunch. Perfect for a sunny day or when you’re just feeling fancy! 🌞
Plus, this salad is quick to whip up, which is a big win for me! Toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious dish that’s ready in no time. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I recommend using cooked shrimp for quicker prep. If you buy raw shrimp, just ensure they are fully peeled and deveined before cooking. If seafood isn’t your thing, canned chickpeas work great as a protein substitute!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, try replacing it with parsley or mint for a different taste. Both will give your salad a fresh kick!
Shallots: These have a milder flavor than onions and add great crunch. If you don’t have shallots, finely chopped red onion can be used instead, but use a little less since they’re stronger in taste.
Cucumber: Adds coolness and crunch. If you want something different, substitute with finely chopped celery or even diced mango for a sweeter element.
Jalapeño: For heat. Feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder dish, or use diced bell pepper for a touch of sweetness without the spice.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Ingredients Are Fresh?
Using fresh ingredients is key for a vibrant salad. Here’s how to check:
- Shrimp: Look for firm flesh that smells fresh—not fishy.
- Cilantro: Choose bright green leaves without any wilting or brown spots.
- Shallots: Make sure they are firm, dry, and without any dark or soft patches.
- Vegetables: Always opt for crisp cucumbers and vibrant bell peppers. If they feel soggy, skip them!
And when cutting, keep your knife sharp to avoid bruising ingredients, ensuring they stay fresh longer!
Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to let it chill for 15-30 minutes, total time adds up to around 45 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
First, if you’re starting with raw shrimp, boil them in salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, drain and cool them under cold water.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked shrimp, chopped cilantro, sliced shallots, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, avocado, and jalapeño if you’re using it. Mix it well so everything is evenly distributed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will add zing to your salad!
4. Dressing the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your shrimp mixture and gently toss everything together to make sure all the yummy ingredients are coated evenly.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad! Add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if you think it needs a little extra flavor.
6. Serve It Up:
You can serve it right away, or let it sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to let those flavors meld together for an even better taste.
7. Garnish:
For that finishing touch, garnish with extra cilantro leaves or even a wedge of lime right before serving!
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant shrimp salad! It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
FAQ for Fresh Cilantro Shrimp Salad with Shallots
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Once thawed, make sure to cook them as directed in the recipe!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh just before serving if possible!
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, replace shrimp with cooked chicken or canned chickpeas for a different protein. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or mint instead!
How Spicy Is This Salad with Jalapeño?
The heat level depends on your jalapeño. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit it or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping, as these parts are where most of the heat resides!
