Elegant Hawaiian Salad

Elegant Hawaiian Salad Recipe - Shrimp, Pineapple, Strawberries, and More

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Elegant Hawaiian Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and shrimp with the sweetness of strawberries and grapes. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The Hawaiian Salad recipe is inspired by the traditional Hawaiian cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh fruits and seafood. This salad is a modern twist on the classic Hawaiian poke bowl, incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables for a unique and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

2 cups rice
2 cups cooked and chopped shrimp
2 cups drained pineapple chunks
1.5 cups halved strawberries
1 cup green grapes
1 cup sliced celery
0.5 cup salad dressing (may use light or fat free)
0.75 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground ginger
1 dash pepper
lettuce
0.25 cup toasted walnuts

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients except the nuts and lettuce, mixing lightly.
Chill the mixture.
Serve the mixture on lettuce leaves.
Top the mixture with nuts.
Garnish the mixture with additional strawberries, if desired.

Variations

Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Use mango or papaya instead of strawberries for a different tropical flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure it is fluffy and not mushy.

- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen shrimp that has been thawed.

- Toasting the walnuts adds a delicious nutty flavor to the salad.

- For a more tropical flavor, you can add coconut flakes or macadamia nuts to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Elegant Hawaiian Salad as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. It can also be served as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

- Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming tough.

- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.

- Substitute the shrimp with cooked crab or lobster.

- Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Add the nuts and garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Elegant Hawaiian Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with additional strawberries and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a tropical fruit smoothie or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 38g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 12g

Fats

Total Fat: 3g

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45%

Calcium: 4%

Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and tree nuts (walnuts).

Summary

This Elegant Hawaiian Salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in fat and calories. It is a good source of protein and vitamin C, making it a great option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Elegant Hawaiian Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of the tropics in a light and refreshing salad. With a mix of fruits, vegetables, and shrimp, this salad is perfect for a summer meal or a light lunch. Enjoy the flavors of Hawaii with this easy and flavorful recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who had just returned from a trip to Hawaii. She was raving about this delicious salad she had tried while on the island, and she was kind enough to share the recipe with me.

As she read off the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the flavors dancing on my tongue. Pineapple, coconut, macadamia nuts, and a tangy dressing made with lime and honey – it sounded like a tropical paradise in a bowl. I was eager to recreate this dish in my own kitchen and bring a taste of Hawaii to my family.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, making a few adjustments based on what I had in my pantry. I chopped up a ripe pineapple, toasted some coconut flakes, and cracked open a bag of macadamia nuts. The scent of the ingredients filled my kitchen, transporting me back to Mrs. Jenkins' sunny porch where we had first discussed the recipe.

Once everything was prepped, I carefully assembled the salad, layering the pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts in a large bowl. The colors were vibrant and inviting, like a painting of a tropical sunset. I drizzled the lime and honey dressing over the top, watching as it cascaded down the sides of the bowl, bringing all the flavors together.

I couldn't wait to share this creation with my family. As we sat down to dinner that evening, I served up generous portions of the Elegant Hawaiian Salad. The first bite was a revelation – the sweet pineapple, the crunchy nuts, the creamy coconut, and the zesty dressing all combined to create a symphony of flavors in my mouth. My family's eyes widened in delight as they tasted the dish, and I knew I had a new favorite recipe on my hands.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Elegant Hawaiian Salad for special occasions and gatherings. It has become a signature dish of mine, always receiving rave reviews from friends and family alike. I have even passed the recipe on to my own grandchildren, hoping to inspire them to experiment in the kitchen and create their own culinary masterpieces.

Each time I make the salad, I am reminded of that summer day with Mrs. Jenkins and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my home. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from others and share my creations with those I love.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to the Elegant Hawaiian Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and friendships that have enriched my life. Food has a way of bringing people together, of creating memories and connections that last a lifetime. I am proud to carry on the tradition of cooking and sharing recipes with those around me, and I look forward to many more delicious adventures in the kitchen.