This shrimp salad is a refreshing mix of tender shrimp and creamy yogurt. It’s light, zesty, and perfect for warm days when you want something tasty without too much fuss!
I love how easy it is to throw together—just mix the shrimp with yogurt, add some crunchy veggies, and you’re done! Perfect for lunch or a picnic, and it’s good for you too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. If you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein source.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a creamy texture and tang. If you prefer, you can use regular yogurt or even sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking shrimp, but can be replaced with avocado oil or melted butter if you wish. Just keep an eye on the heat, as different oils have varying smoke points.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a lovely flavor. If you can’t find it, dried dill works too, but use less since it’s more concentrated. Other alternatives are parsley or thyme.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp for the Salad?
Cooking shrimp properly keeps it tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning them.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a bright pink color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can cause steaming instead of searing.
- As soon as they are pink, remove them from the heat to avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Shrimp Salad with Yogurt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 20 minutes, you can have a fresh and tasty meal on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating, season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. After that, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
2. Make the Yogurt Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is nicely combined. Feel free to taste it and adjust the seasoning if you want—it’s all about your preference!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and cubed feta cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix the ingredients. Then, layer the cooked shrimp on top of the salad.
4. Dress and Serve:
Just before serving, drizzle your creamy yogurt dressing over the salad. You can either toss it all together or leave the dressing on the side for people to serve themselves. Either way, serve immediately for the freshest taste!
This shrimp salad is not only tasty but also packed with flavors—from the seasoned shrimp to the creamy dressing and crisp veggies. Enjoy your healthy and delightful lunch or light dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the yogurt dressing in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly while stored.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, avocado, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor. Just ensure the veggies complement the shrimp and dressing.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
