Shrimp Mango Salad: A Refreshing Tropical Delight
Bright, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, shrimp mango salad is the perfect fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite. Combining succulent shrimp with juicy, ripe mangoes, crisp vegetables, and a light citrusy dressing, this salad is a celebration of freshness. Its tropical flair makes it ideal for summer lunches, light dinners, or even as a stunning appetizer at dinner parties. Beyond its appealing taste and textures, shrimp mango salad is quick to prepare and feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you are looking for a healthy meal packed with nutrients or a colorful dish to impress guests, this salad delivers on every front.
The combination of tender shrimp and naturally sweet mango creates a harmony of flavors that pairs beautifully with crisp greens and a zesty dressing. Each bite is a mix of textures—from crunchy bell peppers to juicy mango chunks—and it’s perfectly balanced to be refreshing yet satisfying. Preparing it at home allows you to adjust spice levels, sweetness, and dressing intensity to your personal preference, making it versatile and approachable for everyone.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a table of ingredients for Shrimp Mango Salad with approximate calorie counts per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked shrimp (peeled) | 300 g | 240 kcal |
| Ripe mango, diced | 1 large (200 g) | 135 kcal |
| Mixed salad greens | 4 cups | 30 kcal |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 medium | 25 kcal |
| Cucumber, sliced | 1 medium | 16 kcal |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | ¼ cup | 12 kcal |
| Avocado, diced | 1 medium | 240 kcal |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | 8 kcal |
| Honey | 1 tsp | 20 kcal |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | 2 tbsp | 1 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
If using raw shrimp, boil or sauté them with a pinch of salt and pepper until pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes per side). Allow to cool slightly. - Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust sweetness or acidity according to taste. - Prepare the Salad Base
Wash and dry the salad greens. Slice cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and avocado. Dice the mango and set aside. - Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, sliced vegetables, mango, and avocado. Add the shrimp on top. - Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added color and flavor. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Protein Options: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or crab for variety.
- Add Crunch: Toasted nuts like cashews or almonds elevate texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes, jalapeño slices, or Sriracha to the dressing for heat.
- Extra Fruits: Pineapple, strawberries, or papaya pair wonderfully with mango.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance for faster assembly.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values per serving (serves 2–3):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–350 kcal |
| Protein | 25–28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20–25 g |
| Fats | 18–20 g |
| Fiber | 5–6 g |
This salad is nutrient-rich, providing lean protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado, and vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables, making it ideal for a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp mango salad pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty bread or garlic baguette
- Quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal
- Light white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch
- As an appetizer alongside grilled seafood or tropical dishes
Shrimp Mango Salad: A Refreshing Tropical Delight
2–3
servings15
minutes5
minutes300-350
kcalIngredients
For the Salad
300 g cooked shrimp (peeled)
1 large ripe mango, diced (200 g)
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium cucumber, sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 medium avocado, diced
For the Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
2 tbsp fresh cilantro
Toasted nuts (almonds, cashews) for extra crunch
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp
- If using raw shrimp, boil or sauté with a pinch of salt and pepper until pink and opaque (3–4 minutes per side). Let cool slightly.
- Make the Dressing
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients
- Wash and dry salad greens. Slice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Dice mango and avocado.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, vegetables, mango, avocado, and shrimp.
- Dress the Salad
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and gently toss until well coated.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or toasted nuts on top. Serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the freshest taste, assemble the salad just before serving.
Use ripe, sweet mangoes for maximum flavor; Ataulfo or Kent varieties work best.
If using raw shrimp, cook until just pink to avoid overcooking and ensure tenderness.
FAQs
1. Can I make shrimp mango salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the shrimp, chop the vegetables, and make the dressing a few hours in advance. Store them separately and toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?
Absolutely. Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp works just as well and makes this recipe convenient for weeknight meals.
3. What dressing goes best with shrimp mango salad?
A light citrus-based dressing with lime or lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey works best. You can also experiment with yogurt-based or chili-lime dressings for extra flavor.
4. Can this salad be made vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. Replace shrimp with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables for a vegan-friendly version while keeping the tropical mango flavor.
5. What other fruits pair well with shrimp mango salad?
Pineapple, papaya, strawberries, or even orange segments complement the sweetness of mango and add extra freshness to the salad.
Conclusion
Shrimp mango salad is a vibrant, healthy, and versatile dish that brings tropical flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s ideal for warm weather, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to a refreshing and nutritious meal. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, this salad proves that healthy eating can be indulgent and exciting. Preparing it at home allows you to control ingredients, spice, and freshness, ensuring every bite is as delightful as it is nourishing.
