Curried Shrimp Salad
Prep Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: Makes 1 lb
Description:
This flavorful and vibrant Curried Shrimp Salad recipe combines tender shrimp, crunchy water chestnuts, fresh celery, and zesty curry flavors, creating a refreshing dish perfect for lunch or a light snack. Easy to prepare and ideal for make-ahead meals, itโs an excellent option for spring gatherings, picnics, or simply a delicious midday meal. This recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen shrimp | 1 lb |
| Sliced water chestnuts | 1 can (about 7 oz) |
| Celery (diced) | 2 stalks |
| Green onions (sliced) | 2 medium |
| Mayonnaise | 3/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Curry powder | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1298.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 64.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 929.8 mg |
| Sodium | 4367.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 77.8 g |
| Fiber | 8.7 g |
| Sugars | 19.7 g |
| Protein | 103.5 g |
Instructions:
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Defrost the Shrimp: Begin by defrosting the shrimp according to the package directions. Typically, this involves placing the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes or letting them thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If youโre in a hurry, using the defrost function on your microwave will also work.
-
Prepare the Shrimp: Once the shrimp are fully thawed, drain them thoroughly, and remove the tails. A quick snip with kitchen scissors or a small knife works best for removing tails if they havenโt already been prepped. Be sure to give them a final rinse to remove any remaining ice crystals or water.
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Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shrimp, sliced water chestnuts, diced celery, and sliced green onions. These ingredients will provide a satisfying crunch and freshness to the salad.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, and curry powder. The soy sauce adds a hint of umami, while the curry powder gives the salad its signature bold flavor. Whisk until smooth and evenly combined.
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Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture, and gently toss everything together. Ensure that the shrimp and vegetables are well-coated with the dressing. The creamy mayonnaise combined with the fragrant curry powder will create a delightful coating that binds all the ingredients together.
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Chill the Salad: Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The flavors will have time to meld together, creating a more robust taste. For the best results, let the salad sit overnight.
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Serve: After the salad has chilled, itโs ready to serve. Spoon the Curried Shrimp Salad onto a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce for a light and refreshing base. If desired, sprinkle a handful of sliced almonds over the top to add an extra layer of crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
Tips for the Best Curried Shrimp Salad:
- Make-Ahead Tip: This salad is perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and the flavors will only get better as it sits.
- Add-ins: Consider adding a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor, or a squeeze of lime for a zesty, citrusy kick.
- Serving Variations: If you prefer a lighter option, serve the salad in avocado halves for an elegant presentation. Alternatively, you can use the salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
This Curried Shrimp Salad is not only flavorful but also a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying meal thatโs perfect for warmer months. Whether youโre serving it as a standalone dish or as part of a larger spread, itโs sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
