Shrimp Caesar Salad offers a delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad by adding succulent shrimp, which brings a burst of seafood flavor to the crisp romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing.

This recipe balances simplicity with sophistication, making it perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner option. With crunchy croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad is not only delicious but also satisfyingly nutritious.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, for traditional Caesar flavor)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Shrimp Caesar Salad

Prepare the Shrimp:

Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to taste.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer.

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Caesar Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, anchovy paste (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Adjust the seasoning to taste. Add more lemon juice or salt if desired for acidity and flavor balance.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and cooked shrimp.

Pour the prepared Caesar dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat the shrimp and lettuce evenly with the dressing.

Add Croutons and Parmesan:

Sprinkle the croutons over the salad. The croutons provide a crunchy texture and absorb some of the dressing, adding depth to each bite.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad as a final touch.

Serve Immediately:

Divide the Shrimp Caesar Salad onto individual serving plates or bowls.

Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.

Serve immediately while the shrimp and lettuce are fresh and crisp.

Chef’s Note

For an extra burst of flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the shrimp’s taste and ensures they are juicy and flavorful.

Adjust the thickness of the Caesar dressing by adding a splash of water or more lemon juice if you prefer a lighter consistency. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or avocado slices.

Nutritional Value

(Nutritional values are approximate and per serving)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg

Enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors in Shrimp Caesar Salad, where tender shrimp, crisp lettuce, and creamy dressing come together harmoniously. This salad is not only satisfying but also a nutritious choice for any mealtime, offering a balance of proteins, greens, and savory elements that appeal to the senses.

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