Name: Shrimp Cobb Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped; 1 large avocado (or 2 small), diced; 1/2 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved; 2-3 bunches romaine, chopped; 3 hard-boiled eggs, quartered; 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled; 1 lb. shrimp, thawed, peeled, and deveined; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp shallot, minced; 1/4 tsp salt, plus more to taste; Pinch of black pepper

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This Shrimp Cobb Salad is the perfect way to enjoy a fresh and vibrant dish that’s both hearty and healthy. When it comes to salads, it’s easy to think of them as just a side, but this one is a showstopper! Packed with juicy shrimp, crispy bacon, and rich avocado, every bite is an experience. You’ll find a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, with a simple homemade dressing that adds a zesty touch, this salad is everything you want in a delicious yet nutritious meal. Whether you’re preparing for a light dinner or want to impress friends at brunch, this shrimp salad is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why This Recipe Works

This Shrimp Cobb Salad combines a medley of fresh, vibrant ingredients with savory flavors, making it a delightful twist on the classic Cobb salad. The juicy shrimp, crispy bacon, and rich avocado harmonize perfectly, creating a textural balance that excites the palate. Moreover, the homemade dressing adds a zesty finish that elevates the dish to gourmet levels, while remaining simple enough for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Cobb Salad

Perfectly suited for brunches, lunch gatherings, or a light dinner, this Shrimp Cobb Salad is nutritious and satisfying. It captures the essence of comfort food while maintaining a fresh twist, ensuring both seafood lovers and salad enthusiasts will fall in love at first bite. It’s colorful, delicious, and packed with protein, making it a fabulous option for anyone aiming to impress!

Ingredients

5 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
1 large avocado (or 2 small), diced
1/2 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
2-3 bunches romaine, chopped
3 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
1 lb. shrimp, thawed, peeled, and deveined
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp shallot, minced
1/4 tsp salt, plus more to taste
Pinch of black pepper

Preparing the Dressing

Whisk Together the Dressing Ingredients

In a bowl or glass measuring cup, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking the Shrimp

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the thawed shrimp, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Salad

Layer the Salad Ingredients

In a large serving bowl or platter, start with a generous bed of chopped romaine. Begin layering by adding the quartered hard-boiled eggs, chopped bacon, sautéed shrimp, halved tomatoes, diced avocado, and crumbled blue cheese on top.

Drizzling the Dressing

Add the Finishing Touch

Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the top of the ingredients, allowing it to cascade down, enhancing every layer with its tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Shrimp Cobb Salad chilled or at room temperature for the best experience. Pair it with crusty bread or a light white wine for a refreshing meal.

Tips for Success

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best taste.
Prepare the dressing in advance to save time.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference—don’t be afraid to add more salt or pepper if needed.

Variations

Swap the blue cheese for feta cheese if you’re looking for a milder flavor.
Add in seasonal vegetables like corn or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Storage Tips

If there are leftovers, consider keeping the salad components separate (especially the dressing) to prevent sogginess. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best quality.

Pairing Ideas

This Shrimp Cobb Salad pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea. For an added touch, serve with garlic bread or crackers for a delightful crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. How do I hard-boil eggs perfectly?
Place eggs in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, then cover and let sit off heat for about 12-15 minutes. Cool immediately in ice water.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the dressing components do not contain gluten, this salad is gluten-free.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain its freshness.

5. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and bacon, and add more hearty vegetables like chickpeas or quinoa for protein.

This Shrimp Cobb Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. It’s the kind of dish that invites creativity, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences. Enjoy each bite as you appreciate the rich textures and vibrant colors on your plate.