Peri Peri King Prawn Salad

Name: Peri Peri King Prawn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 200g (7oz) frozen large peeled shrimp, defrosted; olive oil spray; 1.5 teaspoons of peri peri seasoning; salt and pepper; 1 head of romaine, chopped; 1/2 cup (80g) of frozen corn; 1 roasted red pepper (jarred), drained and sliced; 1 baby cucumber, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons of guacamole; 3 tablespoons of nandos perinaise

By:

Marry

Published:

July 13, 2026

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Peri Peri King Prawn Salad is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine right to your table. This colorful salad features juicy, spiced prawns that are cooked to perfection, nestled among crunchy vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty, creamy sauce. It’s not only a feast for the eyes with its beautiful hues but also satisfying, making it a perfect meal for lunch or a light dinner.

I remember the first time I tried peri peri sauce at a local restaurant, and I was instantly hooked by its bold flavors. This recipe for Peri Peri King Prawn Salad is my take on that amazing dish, capturing the essence without the fuss of complicated cooking. The best part? It’s quick to whip up, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein option or simply a fresh, healthy meal, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just under 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Irresistible Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and tangy prawns paired with fresh veggies inspire vibrant taste notes.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The bright colors and textures make a stunning presentation on any table.
Flexible Serving: Great as a hearty lunch, light dinner, or an impressive dish for guests.
Diet-Friendly Options: Packed with protein, this dish is naturally gluten-free, and the ingredients can be adjusted for various diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

200g (7oz) frozen large peeled shrimp: Make sure they are fully defrosted before cooking for even seasoning.
Olive oil spray: A light coating helps prevent sticking while keeping the dish light. You can substitute with regular olive oil if needed.
1.5 teaspoons of peri peri seasoning: This spice blend gives the prawns their signature kick. If you can’t find peri peri seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder works well.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
1 head of romaine, chopped: Crunchy and refreshing, romaine adds a nice base. Feel free to substitute with mixed greens or spinach for variety.
1/2 cup (80g) of frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture; use fresh corn in summer for an added crunch.
1 roasted red pepper (jarred), drained and sliced: Offers a smoky, savory note. Jarred peppers are convenient but feel free to roast your own if time permits.
1 baby cucumber, sliced: A refreshing crunch that complements the dish; regular cucumbers work too.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a bit of sharpness and color; soak the slices in water for a milder flavor if desired.
3 tablespoons of guacamole: Adds richness and creaminess; you can use avocado if you prefer to make it fresh.
3 tablespoons of Nando’s Perinaise: A deliciously creamy, spicy sauce that finish the salad perfectly. Mix with a little water to make it easier to drizzle.

How to Make Peri Peri King Prawn Salad

Cook the Prawns: Start by spraying a frying pan over medium-high heat with olive oil spray. Add the defrosted prawns and sprinkle in the peri peri seasoning. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
Char the Corn: In the same pan, add the frozen corn and sauté for about 5 minutes until it is lightly charred. This step adds deeper flavor to the corn, picking up the remnants of the peri peri seasoning.
Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine, sliced roasted red peppers, cucumber, and red onion. Toss it all together gently.
Finish the Salad: Top the salad mixture with the cooked prawns and charred corn. Season the entire dish with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add the Sauces: Finally, add dollops of guacamole and drizzle the Perinaise on top. For a smoother drizzle, mix a small amount of water into the Perinaise to loosen it up.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftover Peri Peri King Prawn Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to store it at room temperature, it’s best not to leave it out for more than two hours. You can also freeze components of the salad, such as the prawns and corn, separately for up to three months. Reheat the prawns and corn quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through; keep in mind the texture may change slightly once reheated.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure the prawns are fully thawed to allow for even cooking and seasoning.
To avoid overcooking the shrimp, keep an eye on them; they’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
If you’re looking for more heat, increase the peri peri seasoning, or add some diced fresh chili.
Fresh veggies make a big difference in taste, so opt for them when in season.
This salad can be prepared in advance; just add the guacamole and sauce right before serving to keep everything fresh.

It’s hard to resist the charms of a perfectly made peri peri king prawn salad. The combination of succulent prawns with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the tang of creamy sauces makes for a meal that feels indulgent yet light. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how satisfying it feels to enjoy something so wholesome. Feel free to switch the ingredients up based on your preferences or what’s in season. Cooking should be fun and innovative!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh prawns instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh prawns, make sure they are cleaned and deveined. Fresh prawns usually cook quicker, so keep an eye on them as you sauté.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the prawns with grilled marinated tofu or chickpeas. For the dressing, swap the guacamole and Perinaise for a vegan alternative or simply use your favorite tahini dressing for creaminess.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad components ahead but be sure to keep the sauce and guacamole separate until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.

What should I serve with this salad?

This salad is delightful on its own, but you can easily pair it with crusty bread or warm pita for a heartier meal. If you want a complete feast, serve it alongside a refreshing drink or a light dessert to round off your dinner.