Shrimp Louie Salad: A Classic, Zesty Delight
Shrimp Louie Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s filled with succulent shrimp, crisp lettuce, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a perfect blend of seafood and fresh vegetables, topped with a rich and flavorful dressing that brings everything together.
This salad is a nod to West Coast cuisine, often served in coastal restaurants, and it’s great for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer at a gathering.
Ingredients:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/4 cucumber (thinly sliced)
1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
2 boiled eggs (cut into wedges)
1/4 avocado (sliced, optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the shrimp)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Louie Dressing:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for some heat)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Louie Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), minced garlic, and parsley. Stir until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a splash of water to adjust the consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and boiled egg wedges. If you’re using avocado, add the slices on top.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Place the cooked shrimp on top of the salad, arranging them nicely around the bowl or in the center.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the Louie dressing generously over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side for individual portions.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Shrimp Louie Salad immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner, or as an appetizer at a gathering.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Louie Salad:
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add a bit more ketchup or honey.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Add Crab: Traditional Shrimp Louie often includes crab meat, so you can add crab or a mix of shrimp and crab for extra richness.
Shrimp Louie Salad is a delicious, creamy, and fresh dish that’s sure to please anyone looking for a satisfying, flavorful meal. The tangy dressing, tender shrimp, and crisp vegetables create the perfect combination of textures and flavors in every bite. Enjoy this refreshing salad for a light yet satisfying meal!