Savory Citrus Shrimp Salad

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 6 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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This Savory Citrus Shrimp Salad is a refreshing twist on traditional shrimp dishes. With a vibrant mix of fresh greens, juicy citrus, and succulent shrimp, it's perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you're dining solo or entertaining guests, this salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Savory Citrus Shrimp Salad

Shrimp provide a delicious, lean protein that's easy to cook and absorbs other flavors well. Olive oil adds richness and helps the smoked paprika stick to the shrimp. Speaking of which, smoked paprika gives the shrimp a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the citrus. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning.

Avocado adds creaminess to the dressing, while lime juice brings a zesty tang. Plain yogurt lightens the dressing and adds a slight tang. Honey balances the tartness, and a pinch of cumin gives it warmth.

Mixed greens provide a fresh, crisp base for the salad. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, and red onion offers a bit of bite. Fresh cilantro adds a hint of herbal freshness, while orange segments give the salad a juicy, sweet note. Finally, feta cheese and toasted almonds add richness and crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp rather than frozen, if possible.
  • Segmenting an orange can be tricky. Use a sharp knife and remove the peel and pith first for easier slicing.
  • Toast your almonds in a dry skillet until they're golden brown for extra flavor.
  • If you find the dressing too thick, add a splash of water or more lime juice to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager. If you're looking for something heartier, serve it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a light quinoa pilaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Goat cheese or blue cheese would work well as substitutes.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or basil instead.

Savory Citrus Shrimp Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it's heating up, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every shrimp is coated evenly.

Once the grill is hot, lay the shrimp on it. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn opaque and pink. They should be cooked through but not rubbery.

While the shrimp are grilling, grab your blender. Combine avocado, lime juice, yogurt, honey, and cumin. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is your dressing, and it should taste tangy with a hint of sweetness and spice.

In a large bowl, throw together the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and orange segments. Toss them gently to mix.

Once the shrimp are done, add them to your salad mix. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the top, and gently toss everything to coat the ingredients evenly.

Finish by sprinkling feta cheese and toasted almonds over the salad just before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bright and refreshing flavors that wake up your taste buds.
  • Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
  • Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocado.
  • Great for any season, especially spring and summer.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, diced
2 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 orange, segmented
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque and cooked through.
4. In a blender, combine avocado, lime juice, yogurt, honey, and cumin; blend until smooth.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and orange segments.
6. Add grilled shrimp to the salad mix.
7. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
8. Top with feta cheese and toasted almonds before serving.

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