This Fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad is bursting with colors and flavors! It features juicy shrimp, crisp veggies, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Yum!
Making this salad is a breeze! I love how I can easily whip it up for lunch or a light dinner, and it’s pretty healthy too. Plus, who doesn’t love a tasty dish that looks so fancy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work. I prefer fresh for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try grilled or roasted chickpeas!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great taste. If you don’t have any, canola or avocado oil are good alternatives.
Salad Greens: I love a mix of romaine and arugula, but feel free to use your favorite greens. Spinach or iceberg lettuce can also work well!
Kalamata Olives: These olives give a nice briny taste. If you can’t find them, green olives or even capers could be tasty substitutes.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is a must for that classic Greek flavor! If you need a dairy-free option, try using a nut-based cheese instead.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick and simple, but timing is key! Here’s how to get your shrimp just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
- Remove from heat immediately once cooked and let them cool slightly before adding to your salad.
Fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, and spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and another 5-7 minutes to cook the shrimp. So in total, you’re looking at around 20–25 minutes for a fresh and tasty meal! Perfect for quick lunches or dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
Start by tossing the shrimp in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well coated for maximum flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. This will give you perfectly tender shrimp! Once done, remove from the heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. This colorful mix is not just beautiful, but packed with nutrients!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything well. Make sure all the veggies are coated in that tasty dressing!
6. Add the Shrimp and Feta:
Add the cooked shrimp on top of the salad and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over everything. If you’re using fresh dill, go ahead and add that too for an extra burst of flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad—it’s as delicious as it looks!
FAQ for Fresh Greek Style Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by quickly thawing in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 15–20 minutes. Pat them dry before tossing with the oil and seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Kalamata Olives?
If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can use green olives or even capers for a similar briny flavor. Just make sure they are pitted if using whole olives!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best to keep the shrimp separate from the salad greens and dressing to avoid sogginess. You can reheat the shrimp before serving or enjoy the salad cold!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients (except the shrimp and dressing) a few hours in advance. Just keep the salad in the fridge and add the shrimp and dressing right before serving for the best taste and freshness!
