This bright and colorful salad mixes juicy watermelon with tender shrimp and a hint of spice. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for warm days!
Honestly, who knew fruit and shrimp could become best friends? I love how this salad makes my taste buds dance. Serve it chilled for a delightful treat!
It’s super simple to whip up—just toss everything together and enjoy. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner party! You’ll impress everyone, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled shrimp are ideal for this salad. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp; just thaw them beforehand. For vegetarians, you can replace shrimp with marinated tofu for a protein kick.
Watermelon: Ripe, sweet watermelon adds a lovely freshness. If watermelon isn’t in season, cantaloupe or honeydew work nicely too, giving a similar sweetness.
Jalapeño: This adds a nice kick! If you like it milder, try using a bell pepper instead. For more heat, consider using a serrano pepper or keeping some seeds in the jalapeño.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the salad. If you’re not a fan, parsley or mint can make a delightful alternative.
Nuts: Roasted peanuts or cashews add crunch. You could also try sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free option.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Always thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge the night before. If using fresh, make sure they are cleaned well.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
- When the oil is hot, place shrimp in a single layer and let them cook without moving for about 2 minutes on one side.
- Flip them and cook until they turn pink and curl into a C shape, about another 2 minutes.
- Immediately remove them from the heat to prevent overcooking.
Following these steps will leave you with perfectly tender shrimp that are ideal for this refreshing salad!
Easy Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or cubed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili flakes or crushed red pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews, chopped (optional, for crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 5 to cook the shrimp. In total, you’ll be looking at around 15 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick lunch or a last-minute dinner party dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by tossing the shrimp in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the chili flakes. Make sure they’re well coated. Set aside for a few minutes to let the flavors mingle.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions. Stir gently to mix everything together without crushing the avocado.
4. Combine the Shrimp and Dress the Salad:
Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the other ingredients. Drizzle over the remaining olive oil and lime juice. Sprinkle the rest of the chili flakes on top. Gently toss everything together to ensure it’s well mixed.
5. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For some additional crunch, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts or cashews on top.
6. Serve:
Your salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately, or chill it for a bit to allow the flavors to come together even more. This vibrant, sweet, and spicy salad is perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy this unique combination of flavors and textures—your taste buds will thank you!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Salad Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the jalapeño or remove the seeds before slicing. You can also reduce the amount of chili flakes to suit your taste.
What Can I Substitute for Cucumber?
If cucumber isn’t your thing, you could substitute it with diced bell peppers or zucchini. Both options add a refreshing crunch to your salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, give it a gentle toss before serving again for the best flavor!
