Description
This vibrant Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish combining tender sautéed shrimp with crisp cilantro, creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and cool cucumber. Tossed in a tangy dressing made with lime juice, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil, this salad offers a perfect balance of brightness and spice, ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salad
- 4 cups fresh cilantro leaves (lightly packed)
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, thinly sliced shallot, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber to create a fresh, colorful base for the salad.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using) until fully combined and smooth.
- Toss Salad with Dressing and Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp to the salad bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to ensure the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for maximum freshness and flavor. For a more substantial meal, consider serving this salad over mixed greens or quinoa.
Notes
- For a more filling salad, serve over mixed greens or quinoa.
- Substitute grilled chicken or tofu for shrimp to customize the protein.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to preferred spice level or omit for a milder salad.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus flavor in the dressing.
