This Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad is a refreshing treat! It combines juicy watermelon, tender shrimp, and a kick of spice for a fun twist on traditional salads.
It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light and tasty. I love how the sweetness of watermelon makes the shrimp shine—it’s a delicious summer match!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well. If you’re vegetarian, consider using grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein. Both enjoy the marinade’s flavor!
Watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon to ensure sweetness. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar effect.
Cucumber: For a crunchier texture, use English cucumbers. You can also substitute with zucchini, cut into small pieces.
Jalapeño: Adjust the spice level to your taste. If you prefer milder flavors, use bell peppers instead. For more heat, add serrano peppers.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess but can be replaced with diced mango for a different tropical twist!
How Do You Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to keeping them tender. Here’s how:
- Marinating: Let shrimp soak in the marinade for 10-15 minutes to soak up flavors.
- Heat: Use medium-high heat for cooking; this prevents overcooking.
- Cooking Time: Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They turn pink and opaque when done!
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts or cashews (optional for crunch)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Spicy Marinade/Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili crisp oil (adjust for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: 15 minutes for prep and marinating, and around 10 minutes for cooking the shrimp. Just mix, cook, and toss everything together for a delightful salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce (or fish sauce), honey (or agave), chili flakes (or chili crisp), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a delicious marinade that flavors the shrimp.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss them well in the marinade to ensure they are fully coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, sliced cucumber, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, and fresh cilantro leaves. This colorful mix adds both freshness and crunch to your salad!
5. Add the Shrimp:
Add the cooked shrimp into the bowl with the salad ingredients. Pour over any leftover marinade from the pan for extra flavor. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
6. Crunchy Top (Optional):
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top of the salad. It adds a delightful texture!
7. Serve:
Dish out the salad immediately and serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime juice over the salad just before eating for a zesty kick!
This salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish with a balance of sweetness from the watermelon, creaminess from the avocado, heat from the jalapeños and chili, and the savory flavor of shrimp. Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it at your next summer gathering!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked shrimp, simply toss them with the marinade for flavor and skip the cooking step. Just make sure to avoid overcooking them, as they are already done!
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Shrimp?
If you’re looking for a shrimp alternative, grilled chicken, firm tofu, or chickpeas make great options. Just adjust your marinade time accordingly—chicken will take longer to cook, while tofu and chickpeas can be added directly without cooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon might release some liquid, so it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and the salad ingredients a few hours ahead. Toss them together just before serving to keep the watermelon and avocado fresh and vibrant!
