If you’re craving something that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and packs a healthy punch, the Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad masterfully combines juicy, perfectly seared shrimp with the herbal brightness of cilantro and the subtle bite of shallots, creating a dish that is as colorful as it is delicious. Every bite delivers a thrill of texture and taste—from the crunchy nuts to the zingy dressing—that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a highlight at your next dinner party, this recipe never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of fresh ingredients. Each component plays a special role—whether it’s the succulent shrimp offering protein, the citrusy lime juice brightening the palate, or the crunchy peanuts adding texture and a nutty depth. You’ll find that with just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients, you create a taste sensation.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing shrimp, lending a subtle richness without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the shrimp and bringing out all the flavors.
- 4 cups fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems: The star herb that provides a bright, citrusy, and slightly peppery note.
- 2 cups mixed greens (optional): Adds bulk and variety in texture if you want a heartier salad.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced shallots: Brings a mild, slightly sweet sharpness that balances the salad beautifully.
- 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional): Adds a gentle kick and vibrant color—adjust to your spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts or cashews, roughly chopped: Adds crunch and a toasty, savory flavor.
- Juice of 1 lime: The acidity that wakes up the entire salad and pairs perfectly with the fish sauce glaze on the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce: Delivers umami depth and seasoning for the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Provides a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory and sour notes.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a delicate nutty aroma that’s signature to many Asian-inspired dishes.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds warmth and zing to the dressing, enhancing every ingredient.
How to Make Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Shrimp
Begin by seasoning your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat—this ensures a nice sear without overcooking. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, which means they’re perfectly cooked. Set them aside so they can cool just slightly, maintaining their juicy texture without becoming rubbery.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, mixed greens if using, thinly sliced shallots, sliced red chili for a bit of heat, and the roasted nuts. This combination creates the perfect balance of herbal freshness, crunch, and subtle spiciness that captures the essence of this Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the zesty lime juice with fish sauce or soy sauce, honey for a sweet balance, sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until fully emulsified. This dressing is where all the magic happens—it ties the aromatic herbs and succulent shrimp together beautifully with layers of bright, salty, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Gently add the shrimp to your salad bowl, pour over the dressing, and toss everything carefully. The goal is to coat each ingredient without bruising the tender herbs or smashing the shrimp. Once everything looks evenly dressed and enticingly colorful, it’s time to plate and enjoy this fresh and flavorful creation.
How to Serve Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a few whole fresh cilantro leaves on top for a burst of green and aroma. You might also add a wedge of lime on the side for anyone who wants an extra splash of citrus. Toasting the chopped nuts before adding them can deepen their flavor and add a satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
This salad shines wonderfully as a stand-alone light meal, but when paired, it complements steamed jasmine rice, a cooling cucumber salad, or even crispy spring rolls. The freshness and bold flavors of the salad can beautifully contrast heavier or fried dishes, rounding out your table with a healthy, vibrant option.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate the presentation by layering the salad in individual glass jars or serving in hollowed-out bell peppers or avocado halves for a twist. You can also serve it on a platter with shrimp arranged artfully on top for sharing. These ideas make the Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe not just delicious, but a feast for the eyes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to keep the herbs fresh and prevent the greens from wilting. The shrimp can be refrigerated as well, but for best flavor and texture, enjoy the salad within 24 hours.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad since the fresh herbs and greens lose their crispness and the shrimp can become rubbery. For best results, prepare fresh or refrigerate for short-term storage only.
Reheating
If you need to warm up the shrimp separately, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. Toss the shrimp back into the salad cold, as reheating the entire salad will wilt the fresh herbs and greens.
FAQs
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely! This Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe is versatile. Grilled chicken or tofu work wonderfully as alternatives, offering a different flavor or catering to dietary preferences.
What if I don’t have fish sauce? Can I use something else?
Yes, soy sauce is a perfect substitute and keeps the umami flavor intact. For those avoiding soy, tamari or coconut aminos can also work well.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be prepped ahead in parts—grill the shrimp and make the dressing in advance. Keep greens and dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness and freshness.
How spicy is the salad with the red chili?
The red chili adds a mild heat that can be adjusted or omitted according to your preference. If you love spice, feel free to add more or choose a hotter variety of chili.
Can I add other veggies to this salad?
Definitely! Thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrot, or even bell peppers can add extra crunch, color, and nutrition, making the dish your own while keeping the spirit of the recipe alive.
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh flavors and effortless cooking. It’s a quick yet impressive dish that is bound to brighten your table and delight your taste buds. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy how the lively combination of herbs, shrimp, and tangy dressing can transform a simple salad into something unforgettable.
Print
Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cilantro Salad with Shallots and Shrimp is an incredibly fresh and flavorful dish combining juicy seared shrimp with a vibrant mix of cilantro, shallots, and crunchy nuts. Enhanced with a tangy lime-ginger dressing, this Asian-inspired salad is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer and can easily be customized with other proteins or extra veggies.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad Base
- 4 cups fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
- 2 cups mixed greens (optional)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced shallots
- 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts or cashews, roughly chopped
Dressing
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper evenly on all sides to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, optional mixed greens, thinly sliced shallots, thinly sliced red chili (if using), and chopped roasted nuts for a varied texture and flavor profile.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce or soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Add the seared shrimp to the large bowl with the salad ingredients. Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss gently, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated without bruising the delicate herbs.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the best freshness and texture as a light lunch or appetizer.
Notes
- This salad has a bold, herbaceous flavor making it perfect for light meals or starters.
- You can substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chicken to suit dietary preferences.
- For extra crunch and freshness, consider adding thinly sliced cucumber or shredded carrot to the salad.
