If you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, this Prawn Salad Recipe is just what you need. Packed with juicy, seasoned prawns, crisp veggies, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad offers a perfect blend of freshness and spice. Whether you’re aiming for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a side dish for a barbecue, the Prawn Salad Recipe is guaranteed to impress. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
One of the best things about this Prawn Salad Recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite greens, add extra toppings like avocado or feta cheese, or swap the prawns for another protein. The combination of smoky, sautéed prawns with crunchy vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette creates an irresistible bite every time. Plus, the quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous meals, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a nutritious meal, this Prawn Salad Recipe is a fantastic choice. Its balance of flavors, fresh ingredients, and minimal cooking time make it both convenient and satisfying. Serve it with a side of grilled corn, crusty bread, or a chilled white wine for a complete and refreshing meal experience.
Preparation Time for Prawn Salad Recipe
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
Ingredients for Prawn Salad Recipe
For the Prawns:
- Prawns (peeled and deveined) – 400g (~400 calories)
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (~240 calories)
- Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves (~14 calories)
- Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon (~6 calories)
- Cumin Powder – 1 teaspoon (~8 calories)
- Chili Flakes – ½ teaspoon (~4 calories)
- Salt – ½ teaspoon (~0 calories)
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (~0 calories)
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (~4 calories)
To make the Salad:
- Mixed Greens (arugula, spinach, and lettuce) – 4 cups (~40 calories)
- Cucumber (sliced) – 1 medium (~16 calories)
- Cherry Tomatoes (halved) – 1 cup (~27 calories)
- Red Onion (thinly sliced) – 1 small (~40 calories)
- Bell Pepper (diced) – 1 medium (~24 calories)
- Avocado (sliced) – 1 large (~240 calories)
- Fresh Cilantro (chopped) – 2 tablespoons (~2 calories)
- Feta Cheese (crumbled, optional) – ¼ cup (~100 calories)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons (~360 calories)
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons (~8 calories)
- Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon (~5 calories)
- Honey – 1 teaspoon (~20 calories)
- Garlic Powder – ¼ teaspoon (~1 calorie)
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon (~0 calories)
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (~0 calories)
Instructions: How to Make Prawn Salad Recipe
1: Prepare the Prawns
- Season the Prawns: In a bowl, combine the prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the prawns are evenly coated.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the Prawns: Add the seasoned prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns before removing them from the heat.
2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Stir until the dressing is creamy and well blended. Set aside.
3: Assemble the Salad
- Prepare the Veggies: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and diced bell pepper.
- Add the Avocado: Gently place the sliced avocado over the salad for a creamy texture.
- Top with Prawns: Add the cooked prawns on top of the salad.
- Drizzle with Vinaigrette: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are coated.
- Add Feta (Optional): Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Garnish with Cilantro: Finish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Calorie Breakdown
- Prawns: ~400 calories
- Olive Oil (for prawns): ~240 calories
- Garlic: ~14 calories
- Spices: ~18 calories
- Lemon Juice: ~12 calories
- Salad Veggies: ~147 calories
- Avocado: ~240 calories
- Feta Cheese (optional): ~100 calories
- Lemon Vinaigrette: ~386 calories
- Total Calories: ~1,557 calories (serves 4; ~390 calories per serving)
Why This Recipe Works
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of smoky prawns, crisp veggies, and tangy vinaigrette creates a refreshing and satisfying salad.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous meals.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish.
- Customizable: Add extra toppings, swap the protein, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a light lunch, side dish, or main course, this salad is always a hit.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess water.
2. Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad components and dressing separately. Assemble and toss with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
3. What other toppings can I add?
You can add roasted corn, black beans, croutons, or sunflower seeds for extra texture and flavor.
4. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can replace prawns with grilled chicken, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat the prawns gently before adding them to the salad.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Bursting with Freshness: The combination of juicy prawns, crisp veggies, and zesty vinaigrette makes every bite delicious.
- Quick and Convenient: With minimal cooking time, this salad is perfect for busy days.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or dressing.
- Healthy and Light: High in protein and packed with vitamins, this salad is a nutritious choice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for casual gatherings, meal prep, or a light weeknight dinner.