Shrimp Caprese Salad
Shrimp Caprese Salad is a delightful variation of the classic Caprese salad, which traditionally features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and balsamic vinegar.
In this recipe, succulent shrimp are added to enhance the dish with their sweet and briny flavor, creating a satisfying and refreshing salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a starter for a meal.
With layers of flavors and textures, Shrimp Caprese Salad offers a delicious twist on a beloved Italian-inspired favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, diced into bite-sized pieces
- Fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- How to Make Shrimp Caprese Salad
Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella cheese, and cooked shrimp.
Scatter torn or chiffonade basil leaves over the salad ingredients.
Season and Dress the Salad:
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad according to your taste preference.
Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired.
Serve:
Toss gently to combine all ingredients just before serving to ensure everything is coated with the flavors.
Serve Shrimp Caprese Salad immediately as a light and flavorful appetizer or main course.
Chef’s Note
To enhance the flavor profile of the salad, you can marinate the shrimp in olive oil, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This step adds an extra layer of citrusy brightness to the shrimp. Use fresh and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor, and opt for high-quality fresh mozzarella cheese, which adds creamy texture to the salad. For a variation, you can substitute the balsamic glaze with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for a simpler dressing.
Nutritional Value
(Nutritional values are approximate and per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Enjoy the vibrant and fresh flavors of Shrimp Caprese Salad, where juicy shrimp, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil come together with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful culinary experience.
This salad is perfect for showcasing the best of summer ingredients and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a quick and satisfying meal option.
Thanks for visiting Shrimps Recipes