7 Recipes for Making Watercress and Shrimp Salad
Watercress and shrimp salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the peppery taste of watercress with the delicate flavor of shrimp. In this article, we'll explore seven unique recipes that will elevate your salad game and impress your guests. Each recipe offers a different twist on this classic combination, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste buds.
1. Classic Watercress and Shrimp Salad
Let's start with a timeless recipe that showcases the simplicity and elegance of watercress and shrimp.
Ingredients:
٠- 2 bunches of fresh watercress, washed and trimmed
- 500g cooked and peeled shrimp
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine watercress, shrimp, cucumber, and avocado.
- Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil in a small bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
2. Asian-Inspired Watercress and Shrimp Salad
This recipe adds an Asian twist to the traditional watercress and shrimp salad, incorporating flavors like sesame oil and rice vinegar.
Ingredients:
Salad | Dressing |
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Instructions:
- Mix all dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine watercress, shrimp, carrot, and edamame.
- Toss the salad with the dressing.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before serving.
3. Mediterranean Watercress and Shrimp Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired version incorporates feta cheese and olives for a tangy, salty twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 bunches watercress
- 400g grilled shrimp
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange watercress on a large platter.
- Top with grilled shrimp, tomatoes, olives, feta, and red onion.
- Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
4. Tropical Watercress and Shrimp Salad
This recipe brings a taste of the tropics to your plate with the addition of mango and coconut.
Ingredients:
Salad | Dressing |
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Instructions:
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine watercress, shrimp, mango, and red bell pepper.
- Toss the salad with the dressing.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.
5. Spicy Watercress and Shrimp Salad
For those who like a kick, this spicy version incorporates chili and garlic for a fiery twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 bunches watercress
- 400g grilled shrimp
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Mix lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili in a small bowl.
- Combine watercress, shrimp, and cucumber in a large bowl.
- Toss the salad with the dressing.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving.
6. Creamy Watercress and Shrimp Salad
This indulgent version features a creamy dressing that perfectly complements the peppery watercress and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
Salad | Dressing |
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Instructions:
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine watercress, shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Gently toss the salad with the creamy dressing.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
7. Grilled Watercress and Shrimp Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Our final recipe features grilled shrimp and a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a perfect summer salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 bunches watercress
- 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 grapefruit, segmented
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, combine watercress, grilled shrimp, grapefruit, and orange segments.
- Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
Conclusion
These seven recipes for watercress and shrimp salad offer a variety of flavors and textures to suit any palate. From the classic version to more exotic twists, there's a recipe here for every occasion. Remember, the key to a great salad is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and balancing the flavors to complement the peppery watercress and delicate shrimp.
Experiment with these recipes and don't be afraid to add your own personal touch. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a refreshing summer dinner, or an impressive starter for your next dinner party, these watercress and shrimp salads are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy!