Shrimp and Fennel Salad: A Fresh, Light, and Flavorful Dish
Shrimp and Fennel Salad is a refreshing dish that combines tender shrimp with the crunchy, aromatic flavor of fennel. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to accompany your dinner.
Ingredients:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 medium fennel bulb (thinly sliced)
2 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby greens)
1/2 cucumber (thinly sliced)
1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking shrimp)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for the dressing)
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (for the dressing)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for the dressing)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for the dressing)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, thinly sliced fennel, cucumber, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the vegetables together.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be tangy and well-balanced, complementing the fennel and shrimp.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Once the shrimp have cooled slightly, add them to the salad bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Shrimp and Fennel Salad on individual plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Fennel Salad:
Fennel Flavor: If you’re new to fennel, start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it to taste. Its anise-like flavor can be intense for some people.
Make it Spicy: For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the salad or mix some sriracha into the dressing.
Customize with More Veggies: Add some avocado slices, radishes, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and color.
Shrimp and Fennel Salad is a crisp, fresh dish that combines light and savory ingredients with a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy meal that’s full of vibrant flavors. Enjoy!