Italian Olive Oil Shrimp Salad
Italian Olive Oil Shrimp Salad is a bright, fresh dish packed with tender shrimp, crunchy greens, and a splash of zesty lemon and garlic, all brought together by a generous…
Tip: save now, cook later.Italian Olive Oil Shrimp Salad is a bright, fresh dish packed with tender shrimp, crunchy greens, and a splash of zesty lemon and garlic, all brought together by a generous drizzle of rich olive oil. It’s light but satisfying, perfect for warm days or any time you want something healthy and tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love making this salad when I want a quick meal that feels special. The secret is in using good-quality olive oil and fresh herbs to really bring out the flavors. I usually toss in some cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of parmesan because it adds just the right touch of brightness and saltiness that keeps you going back for more.
Serving this on a bed of crisp lettuce or alongside warm crusty bread is my go-to. It’s also a great dish to bring to picnics or casual gatherings since it holds up well and tastes fantastic cold. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how simple ingredients can come together to create something that tastes like a little trip to the Italian coast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work great here for tenderness and size. If you’re avoiding shellfish, cooked chicken or firm tofu make nice swaps. Just adjust seasoning a bit.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the heart of the salad dressing. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor. Avocado oil or light grapeseed oil can substitute if needed.
Fresh Lemon: Offers essential brightness. Both juice and zest are used for a sharp, fresh taste. Lime juice can be an alternative but changes the flavor slightly.
Italian Herbs: A dried mix or fresh oregano, basil, and thyme is perfect. Use whatever you have; dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less if swapping.
Olives: Kalamata and green olives add saltiness and depth. If you don’t have these, any firm brined olives will work, pitted for easy eating.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook very fast and can get rubbery if left too long. Here’s what I do:
- Marinate shrimp briefly to add flavor and moisture.
- Heat a skillet to medium-high—hot but not smoking.
- Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Remove from heat immediately once cooked to prevent toughness.
Using this method keeps shrimp tender, juicy, and flavorful for your salad.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Mixing bowl – toss your shrimp with marinade and salad ingredients easily.
- Sharp knife – makes chopping vegetables and slicing lemon a breeze.
- Cutting board – protects surfaces and gives you space to prep.
- Salad bowl – roomy enough to mix all the salad ingredients without spilling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for grilled chicken for a milder taste and a bit more protein.
- Add fresh mozzarella balls for creamy texture that balances the olive oil.
- Include roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and color.
- Sprinkle with chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for a gentle spicy kick.
How to Make Italian Olive Oil Shrimp Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp and Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad:
- 1 cup mixed salad greens (such as Romaine and arugula)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes total: 10 minutes to marinate the shrimp, 5 minutes to cook them, and a few minutes to prepare and toss the salad ingredients together. It’s quick and easy for a fresh, flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together so the shrimp are well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp along with the marinade. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked all the way through. Then, remove the skillet from heat and set the shrimp aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and both kinds of olives.
4. Dress and Toss the Salad:
Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the salad and gently toss everything to mix well and coat the vegetables with the oil.
5. Assemble and Serve:
Place the cooked shrimp on top of the salad mixture. Sprinkle fresh parsley over everything. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus if you like.
This lovely salad combines bright, fresh veggies with tender shrimp and the rich flavor of olive oil, making a healthy and delicious meal any time you want something light but satisfying. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp and salad separate if possible to prevent the greens from getting soggy. Re-toss before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the shrimp and veggies a few hours in advance, but dress the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. Marinate the shrimp beforehand to save time.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Herbs?
If you don’t have Italian herbs, use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme individually or add some fresh parsley and rosemary. Adjust quantities to your taste for a fresh flavor.
