Snap Pea and Shrimp Salad with Spicy Cilantro Dressing
When the temperature rises, there’s nothing quite like a light, refreshing salad to keep you cool and satisfied. Snap Pea and Shrimp Salad with Spicy Cilantro Dressing is the perfect dish to enjoy during the warm summer months. It’s a delightful combination of fresh, crisp snap peas, succulent shrimp, and a zesty, spicy cilantro dressing that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. This salad is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
1. Fresh and Crunchy
The star of this salad is the snap peas, which are known for their sweet flavor and satisfying crunch. Paired with tender shrimp, they create a wonderful contrast of textures that make this salad irresistible.
2. Bold and Flavorful Dressing
The spicy cilantro dressing is what takes this salad to the next level. Made with fresh cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, a touch of sugar, and olive oil, it’s a vibrant, zesty dressing that perfectly complements the snap peas and shrimp.
3. Quick and Easy
With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, this salad comes together in less than 20 minutes. It’s perfect for those days when you want something healthy and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
4. Healthy and Nutritious
This salad is packed with nutrients. Snap peas are rich in vitamins and fiber, while shrimp provides a good source of lean protein. The cilantro dressing adds a burst of antioxidants and a touch of spice.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh snap peas and shrimp are key to the best flavor and texture in this salad. Look for bright green, firm snap peas and fresh, plump shrimp.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dressing, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds. For extra heat, add another jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Ahead: You can cook the shrimp ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salad. The dressing can also be made in advance and kept in the fridge for a few days.
More Summer Salads
- Zucchini Ribbons with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
- Honey Balsamic Pasta Salad
- Perfect Potato Salad
- Green Goddess Garden Chicken Salad
Snap Pea and Shrimp Salad with Spicy Cilantro Dressing
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp thawed, peeled, and deveined
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper
Spicy Cilantro Dressing
- 1 bunch cilantro picked through and large stems removed, ~2 c loosely packed (a combo of mint and cilantro is also really nice)
- 1-2 jalapenos stemmed, depending on heat preference
- 2 limes juiced
- ⅓ c extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- ½ tsp granulated sugar
Salad
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce cored and chopped
- 1 pint snap pea trimmed and sliced into ½ inch thick pieces
- 1 medium cucumber sliced into ½ inch thick pieces
- 3 radishes trimmed and thinly sliced
- cilantro, mint, or basil to garnish
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: Preheat the broiler. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towel, then toss shrimp in olive and season to taste with salt and pepper. Arrange on baking sheet. Broil 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are opaque and juicy. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Make the dressing: combine all dressing ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust salt and sugar to taste.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl mix together lettuce, snap peas, cucumber, radishes. Top with shrimp, dressing, and any herbs to garnish.