If you have ever craved a salad that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and feels like a celebration on your plate, then the Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe is your new best friend. This salad is a glorious combination of tender, perfectly sautéed shrimp layered over crisp mixed greens and colorful veggies, all dressed with the unmistakably tangy and creamy Louie dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a tribute to seafood lovers everywhere, blending textures and tastes that make every bite exciting. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe is simple because the ingredients are straightforward, but each element brings something special to the table — from juicy shrimp and crunchy veggies to the luscious dressing that ties everything together.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides the succulent seafood base that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing shrimp to a juicy, flavorful finish without overpowering them.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning shrimp and balancing the salad’s flavors.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: A beautiful blend of romaine, butter lettuce, and arugula adds texture and freshness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These bring vibrant color and bursts of juicy sweetness.
- 1 large avocado, sliced: Adds creamy richness that complements the crisp veggies and shrimp.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced: Brings a crisp, cooling crunch to every bite.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: For a touch of sharpness that brightens the salad.
- 1/2 cup radishes, sliced: Adds a peppery snap that keeps the salad lively.
- 1/2 cup Louie dressing: Whether homemade or store-bought, this tangy, creamy dressing is the signature finish.
How to Make Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to ensure they are clean, then pat them dry carefully with paper towels. Dry shrimp are key to achieving that beautiful sear during cooking, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and opaque. This simple technique locks in their natural sweetness and keeps them tender.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
While the shrimp cool slightly on a plate, arrange your mixed salad greens in a large bowl. The combination of greens not only adds color but also a contrast in textures from leafy romaine to peppery arugula.
Step 4: Add the Fresh Veggies
Layer the halved cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, crunchy cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and radishes over the greens. These fresh veggies add dimension, flavor, and a variety of colors that make the salad irresistible before the final topping.
Step 5: Place the Shrimp and Dress
Distribute the sautéed shrimp evenly over the vegetable layer. Then, drizzle the Louie dressing generously over the entire salad, so every bite gets a burst of that tangy, creamy flavor that defines this recipe.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
For a harmonious flavor blend, gently toss the salad just before serving. This ensures the dressing coats every ingredient lightly and the components mix beautifully without losing their individual charm.
How to Serve Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or chopped chives sprinkled on top add a wonderful herbal lift and pop of color. Serving lemon wedges on the side is also a lovely touch — a quick squeeze brightens the shrimp and elevates the overall freshness of the salad.
Side Dishes
This salad can stand on its own as a satisfying meal, but it pairs exceptionally well with crusty artisan bread or garlic toast. Light sides like a chilled cucumber soup or a glass of crisp white wine also make for a delightful dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, build the salad in individual clear glass bowls or on chilled plates so all the vibrant colors shine through. Alternatively, serve the shrimp separately on skewers alongside the salad for a fun interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the salad components separately for best results: shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, and veggies in another container to keep them crisp. Dress the salad just before eating to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Due to the fresh vegetables and delicate dressing, freezing isn’t recommended for this Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe. The textures and flavors would unfortunately not withstand the freezing and thawing process well.
Reheating
To reheat shrimp leftovers, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through to preserve their juiciness. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent rubbery textures. The salad vegetables are best enjoyed cold and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for the Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp can save you time, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before tossing them into the salad. You might want to briefly sauté them to warm through and enhance their flavor.
Is Louie dressing hard to make at home?
Not at all! Louie dressing typically combines mayonnaise, ketchup, chili sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, and seasonings. It’s quick to whip up and tastes incredibly fresh, but store-bought versions work wonderfully as well.
Can I substitute the shrimp with other seafood?
Yes, crab meat or cooked lobster can be delightful alternatives if you want to switch things up while still honoring the seafood spirit of the salad.
What type of salad greens should I use?
For the ideal texture and flavor balance, mix romaine, butter lettuce, and arugula. Romaine brings crunch, butter lettuce adds softness, and arugula gives a peppery note that complements the sweetness of shrimp.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Just keep the dressing and shrimp separate from the salad greens and veggies until you’re ready to eat. That way, everything stays fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe is truly a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that anyone can make and enjoy. It’s fresh, colorful, and hits the perfect balance between hearty seafood and crisp, invigorating vegetables. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table, whether for a casual lunch or a special gathering with friends and family.
Print
Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is a vibrant and flavorful seafood salad featuring sautéed shrimp atop a bed of mixed greens and fresh vegetables, all generously drizzled with a tangy Louie dressing. This easy-to-make salad combines crisp textures and rich flavors, making it a perfect light lunch or elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, butter lettuce, or arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup radishes, sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Louie dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Rest the shrimp: Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and place on a plate to cool slightly.
- Arrange the greens: In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed salad greens as the base layer.
- Add the vegetables: Layer the cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, cucumber slices, red onion, and radishes evenly over the greens.
- Top with shrimp: Place the sautéed shrimp over the vegetable layer, distributing them evenly.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the Louie dressing generously over the entire salad to coat all components.
- Optional garnishes: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest.
- Final toss: Just before serving, gently toss the salad to evenly incorporate the dressing and flavors.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- Use fresh, ripe avocado to enhance creaminess.
- Louie dressing can be store-bought or made at home with ingredients like mayonnaise, chili sauce, and horseradish.
- Serve immediately after tossing to keep salad greens crisp.
- Add optional garnishes for visual appeal and extra flavor.
