Citrus Shrimp Salad

Citrus Shrimp Salad Recipe with Watercress, Cabbage, and Carrot

Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 3 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Citrus Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon, lime, and soy sauce with succulent shrimp and crunchy vegetables. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

History

The origins of Citrus Shrimp Salad can be traced back to the coastal regions where seafood is abundant. The combination of citrus fruits and shrimp is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe puts a modern twist on this traditional dish by adding a variety of fresh ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

1 clove garlic
3 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
0.13 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 lb (454 g) medium peeled and deveined shrimp
1 cup watercress, chopped
1 medium head cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, peeled and grated
0.33 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice
2 tbsp honey
non-fat cooking spray
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)

How to prepare

In a food processor, add the garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
Pour the lemon juice mixture into a medium-sized bowl, then add the shrimp.
Toss the shrimp to coat evenly, cover with plastic wrap, and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
In a large serving bowl, add the watercress, cabbage, and carrot. Mix until well combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey. Pour the mixture over the salad mix.
Toss the salad until it is well-coated.
Spray a small skillet with nonfat cooking spray.
Pour the shrimp with the marinade into the pan and cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, or until the shrimp is completely pink in the center.
Place the cooked shrimp in the center of the salad and garnish with optional basil and peanuts.

Variations

Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add avocado slices or mango chunks for a creamy and sweet twist.
Top the salad with toasted coconut flakes for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables and herbs.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Citrus Shrimp Salad as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the shrimp for maximum flavor.

- Use a food processor to blend the citrus dressing.

- Cook the shrimp quickly over high heat to prevent overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use orange juice instead of lemon juice for a sweeter flavor.

- Swap out the cabbage for kale or spinach.

- Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.

- Marinate the shrimp the night before and cook them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Citrus Shrimp Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Citrus Shrimp Salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 60% DV

- Vitamin A: 80% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp)

- May contain peanuts

Summary

Citrus Shrimp Salad is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Citrus Shrimp Salad is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. With a zesty citrus dressing, succulent shrimp, and crunchy vegetables, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Citrus Shrimp Salad. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious and unique dishes. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the wonderful aroma of fresh citrus and seafood.

Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and told me she had a special recipe to share with me. She pulled out a worn, stained piece of paper from a drawer and handed it to me. The recipe was written in her elegant handwriting, detailing every step and ingredient needed to create the perfect Citrus Shrimp Salad.

I was thrilled to learn how to make this dish, as I had always been a fan of shrimp and citrus flavors. Margaret explained to me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The combination of juicy shrimp, tangy citrus fruits, and fresh herbs was a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings.

As Margaret walked me through the steps of the recipe, I listened intently and took notes, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. She showed me how to marinate the shrimp in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, allowing the flavors to meld together and infuse the seafood with a bright, zesty taste.

Next, she demonstrated how to grill the shrimp to perfection, ensuring they were cooked just right and had a slightly charred, smoky flavor. The smell of the sizzling shrimp filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the shrimp were cooked, Margaret showed me how to assemble the salad, tossing together a colorful array of mixed greens, sliced citrus fruits, and the grilled shrimp. She drizzled a homemade citrus vinaigrette over the salad, adding a final burst of flavor to the dish.

I eagerly took a bite of the Citrus Shrimp Salad and was instantly transported to a tropical paradise. The combination of juicy shrimp, tangy citrus fruits, and crisp greens was a revelation to my taste buds. I could taste the love and care that had gone into creating this dish, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Citrus Shrimp Salad countless times, each time bringing a taste of summer to my table. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition that Margaret had shared with me.

Every time I make the Citrus Shrimp Salad, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first learned the magic of combining citrus and seafood. It is a recipe that has become a part of my culinary heritage, a reminder of the joy and wonder that food can bring. And for that, I am forever grateful to Margaret and her grandmother for sharing their timeless recipe with me.