Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a vibrant, mouthwatering main course that will transform your dining experience! This Romaine Watercress Salad with Shrimp is a perfect blend of crisp greens, succulent seafood, and a zesty vinaigrette that will make your taste buds dance. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious – get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet sophisticated recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups watercress
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the romaine lettuce and watercress thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry using clean paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl. Gently tear the watercress leaves and add them to the romaine, creating a mixed green base for the salad.
- If the shrimp are not already cooked, quickly sauté them in a hot pan with a touch of olive oil for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Allow the shrimp to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a light vinaigrette dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the mixed greens, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, being careful not to bruise the delicate greens.
- Serve immediately to ensure the salad remains crisp and fresh. Optional: Garnish with additional cracked black pepper or lemon wedges if desired.
Tips
- Always pat your shrimp and greens completely dry to prevent a watery salad and ensure the dressing clings perfectly.
- For extra flavor, consider briefly marinating the shrimp in a bit of lemon juice and garlic before cooking.
- Use fresh, high-quality olive oil for the vinaigrette to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- If possible, cook the shrimp just before serving to maintain their tender, juicy texture.
- For a more gourmet presentation, you can lightly toast some pine nuts or add crumbled feta cheese as an optional garnish.
- Serve immediately after dressing to keep the greens crisp and prevent wilting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 253kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
