Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Lemon Basil Shrimp Salad that promises to be your new go-to summer dish! Imagine succulent, perfectly seared shrimp nestled on a bed of crisp greens, kissed by fresh basil and zesty lemon - a recipe so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is about to become your secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better searing and prevents steaming.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to ensure proper caramelization and even cooking.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light golden color, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Remove shrimp from heat and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to add brightness and stop the cooking process.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Gently place the warm, cooked shrimp on top of the salad greens.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the salad for an aromatic and herbaceous touch.
- Drizzle remaining olive oil and any remaining lemon juice as a light dressing.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients and ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Serve immediately while shrimp are still warm, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Shrimp Searing Mastery: The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is a hot pan and minimal movement. Make sure your skillet is properly heated and give the shrimp space to develop a beautiful golden crust.
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your shrimp dry before cooking. Excess moisture prevents proper caramelization and can lead to steamed instead of seared shrimp.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil and squeeze the lemon juice right before serving to maximize flavor and aroma.
- Temperature Timing: Remove shrimp from heat the moment they turn pink to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, serve the salad immediately while the shrimp are still warm, creating a delightful temperature contrast with the cool, crisp greens.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to add additional herbs like mint or parsley, or sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 180mg
