This bright and refreshing shrimp and mango salad is a tasty mix of sweet mango, juicy shrimp, and colorful veggies. It’s light and perfect for a warm day!
Honestly, it’s like a party in a bowl. I love how the sweetness of the mango dances with the shrimp. Serve it chilled, and you’ve got a hit on your hands! 🥭🦐
Making this salad is super easy. Just toss everything together and enjoy! I often whip it up for lunch, and it always brings a smile to my face—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp makes this recipe quick and easy. If you’re using raw shrimp, just cook them in boiling water for a few minutes until they turn pink and opaque. You can also swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and color. If you can’t find mango, try using peaches or pineapple for a similar taste and fresh vibe. Canned mango can work in a pinch but may not have the same texture.
Avocado: Avocado provides creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re avoiding it, you can skip it or use a scoop of Greek yogurt for creaminess instead. It will change the flavor slightly but still be tasty!
Greens: Mixed salad greens are a great base, but you can use any salad greens you like—romaine, spinach, or even kale! Just make sure to chop kale properly to tenderize it if you choose that option.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing brings all the flavors together, and it’s important to get it just right! Here’s how to make a simple yet flavorful dressing.
- Combine lime juice, olive oil, honey (or agave), salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk until the ingredients are well-blended. Taste and adjust with more lime juice or honey based on your preference—add extra honey if you like it sweeter.
- For a little extra zing, try adding minced garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Remember to drizzle it over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
How to Make Shrimp and Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, radicchio)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or agave nectar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or basil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves immediately. It’s a quick and enjoyable dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Taste it and adjust the seasoning to your liking—add a little more honey for sweetness or extra lime juice for zing!
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, thinly sliced red onion, diced mango, sliced avocado, and the cooked shrimp. Be sure to mix these gently to keep the avocado slices from breaking apart.
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss everything together gently until the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
4. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or basil on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, vibrant shrimp and mango salad either chilled or at room temperature!
Enjoy this fresh, vibrant salad that combines the sweetness of mango, creaminess of avocado, and delicate flavors of shrimp with a bright citrus dressing!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the salad. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the shrimp and replace it with chickpeas or marinated tofu for protein. Additionally, you can swap honey for agave nectar or maple syrup to keep it plant-based!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. The avocado might brown if cut too early, so consider slicing it right before serving to maintain its vibrant color.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to add other veggies to your salad! Cucumber, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully and can enhance the crunch and flavor. Just make sure to chop them evenly for a balanced bite!
