A bright and flavorful mix of seasoned shrimp, fresh veggies, and tangy feta layered over greens with balsamic vinaigrette.

There’s something about this Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad that feels instantly fresh and flavorful. This recipe layers juicy, spiced shrimp over crisp greens with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for the ultimate mix of bright, tangy, and savory. Drizzled with homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad is light enough for lunch but satisfying enough for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and flavorful – This Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad is packed with crisp veggies, juicy shrimp, and tangy feta.
• Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Light yet satisfying – a healthy salad that’s filling enough for lunch or dinner.
• Homemade touch – finished with a simple balsamic vinaigrette you can whisk together in minutes.
• Versatile – serve it as a main dish, pair with warm pita, or prep ahead for meal-ready lunches.

Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp – Go for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time. Fresh or frozen both work; just thaw well before cooking.
• Spices – Smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder give the shrimp bold Mediterranean flavor. You can swap in Italian seasoning if that’s what you have.
• Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed adds brightness. If you’re out, bottled works in a pinch.
• Cucumber & tomatoes – Any variety of cucumber or tomato works here; cherry or grape tomatoes keep it extra juicy.
• Feta cheese – Adds a tangy, salty bite. Crumbled goat cheese works if you’re not a feta fan.
• Fresh herbs – Parsley or dill add a pop of color and freshness, but they’re totally optional.
• Mediterranean salad mix – Use a store-bought mix or combine your favorite leafy greens.
• Balsamic vinaigrette – Homemade tastes amazing and takes just a minute to whisk together, but bottled vinaigrette works if you’re in a hurry.

Before You Make

Do I need to peel and devein the shrimp myself?
Not if you don’t want to — you can buy shrimp already peeled and deveined to save time.

Can I make the balsamic vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just shake or whisk before using.

What’s the best way to keep the shrimp from turning rubbery?
Don’t overcook them — shrimp only need about 3–4 minutes in a hot skillet until they turn pink.

Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the salad topping:

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)

Other:

• Mediterranean salad mix (store-bought or mixed at home)
• Balsamic Vinaigrette (find in notes)

Instructions

1. To make the shrimp, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and lemon juice. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through. Set it aside.
2. In another bowl, mix the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta.
3. To assemble, add the salad mix into a bowl. Top with the cucumber mixture and then add the shrimp.
4. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and enjoy!

Notes

Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Whisk everything together in a bowl or shake it up in a jar until well combined.

FAQ

Can I meal prep this Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad?
Yes, just keep the shrimp and salad toppings stored separately, then assemble before eating.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?
Definitely — grilled chicken strips make a great swap if you don’t have shrimp on hand.

Is this Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad healthy?
Yes! It’s full of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and heart-healthy olive oil.

What can I serve with this salad?
Warm pita bread, hummus, or a light grain like quinoa or couscous pairs perfectly.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely — just cook the shrimp in batches so they sear properly.

Sprinkle of Fun

With a bowl of Seaside Escape Shrimp Salad, you can almost hear the waves and feel the ocean breeze. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary afternoon into a mini coastal getaway — best enjoyed with sunshine, a comfy chair, and a good book by your side.