Mediterranean salad

Mediterranean Shrimp Salad

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

I invite you on a culinary journey to the heart of the Mediterranean with a fresh and vibrant salad, bursting with flavors and colors. This Mediterranean shrimp salad is not only a healthy choice but also a dish that will remind you of beach vacations and bright sunshine. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal in just a few minutes.

Your Ingredients

To create the perfect Mediterranean salad, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

- 100 g shrimp (about 4 shrimp, 90 calories)
- 130 g cherry tomatoes (2 tomatoes, 23.4 calories)
- 60 g mozzarella (half a ball, 153 calories)
- 50 g cucumber (about 6 calories)
- 100 g iceberg lettuce (3 leaves, 14 calories)
- 3 slices of green bell pepper (about 18 calories)
- 3 slices of yellow bell pepper (118 calories per 100 g)
- 100 g radishes (about 18 calories)
- 2 green onions (100 g, 32 calories)
- 4 green olives (100 g, 145 calories)
- Oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste
- Dressing made of olive oil and lemon juice (optional)

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. The shrimp provide quality protein, while olive oil is rich in healthy fats, great for heart health. The total calories for one serving amount to approximately 276 calories, making this salad a light and healthy option.

Step by Step: Preparing the Mediterranean Salad

1. Prepare the shrimp: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can season them with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Bake for 15 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.

2. Prepare the vegetables: While the shrimp are baking, wash all the vegetables. Slice the iceberg lettuce into thin strips, the cucumber into rounds, the tomatoes in halves, and the radishes into thin slices. The bell peppers can be cut into strips, and the green onions should be chopped finely.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, start by adding the iceberg lettuce as the base. Then add the remaining chopped vegetables: cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers, radishes, and green onions. Gently toss to combine the ingredients.

4. Add mozzarella and shrimp: Cut the mozzarella into cubes or slices and add it to the salad, followed by the baked shrimp. This step will add a creamy texture and delightful flavor.

5. Season: Sprinkle dried oregano and fresh basil, if available. These aromatic herbs will bring a touch of freshness and evoke memories of sun-soaked summers.

6. Prepare the dressing: If desired, you can make a simple dressing from olive oil and lemon juice. Mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the juice of half a lemon, adding salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will enhance the salad's flavors.

7. Serve: The Mediterranean salad is now ready! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, alongside a slice of toasted bread or croutons.

Variations and Helpful Tips

- Add more ingredients: You can enrich the salad with avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or nuts for added nutrients and texture.
- Make it vegetarian: If you prefer a meatless version, you can skip the shrimp and add tofu or feta cheese.
- Keep the salad fresh: If you’re not serving it right away, store the vegetables and dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
- Pair with beverages: This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemon and mint cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp are an excellent choice. Just make sure to fully thaw them before baking.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or black olives, depending on your preferences.

3. How long can the salad be stored?
If not consumed immediately, the salad can be kept in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving.

4. How can I make the salad more filling?
Adding cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or lentils can turn this salad into a heartier meal, ideal for lunches.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to try this delicious recipe! I assure you that each bite will remind you of the Mediterranean sun and joyful moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy every moment and savor the culinary journey!

 Ingredients: 4 shrimp (100g....90cal.) 2 small tomatoes (130g......23.4 cal) 1/2 ball of mozzarella (approx. 60g.....153 cal) 50g cucumber (50g......6cal) 3 leaves of iceberg lettuce (I couldn't figure out how much they weigh but 100g of lettuce has 14 cal.) 3 slices of green bell pepper 3 slices of yellow bell pepper (118 cal for 100g) 5 radishes (100g.....18 cal) 2 green onions (100g.....32cal) 4 green olives (100g...145cal) oregano, basil, salt, pepper and for those who wish, a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar.