Sharing is caring!

Keto Shrimp Salad

Why You’ll Love Keto Shrimp Salad?

If you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, this keto shrimp salad is a must-try. Bursting with fresh flavors and a zesty lime dressing, it’s a refreshing dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a quick lunch option, this salad delivers on taste and convenience. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with other keto-friendly dishes like spicy grilled shrimp for a protein-packed feast.

Ingredients to make keto shrimp salad

• 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp honey (or sugar-free substitute for strict keto)

Time needed to make keto shrimp salad?

This refreshing keto shrimp salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute lunches. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes peeling shrimp if needed)
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (if using pre-cooked shrimp, skip this step)
• Total Time: 20 minutes

For even quicker prep, use pre-cooked shrimp or try our spicy grilled shrimp for extra flavor. The zesty lime dressing takes just 2 minutes to whisk together!

Quick Steps to Make Keto Shrimp Salad?

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by rinsing and patting dry 1 pound of fresh shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in cold water before draining. Remove the shells and devein if necessary.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

While the shrimp cools, dice 1 cup of cucumber, ½ cup of cherry tomatoes, and ¼ cup of red onion. For extra crunch, add ½ cup of chopped celery.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a dash of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled shrimp, chopped veggies, and dressing until evenly coated. For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the keto shrimp salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled over a bed of fresh greens or enjoy as is!

Is keto shrimp salad healthy and nutritious ?

Absolutely! Keto shrimp salad is packed with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Shrimp is low in calories but rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. Combined with leafy greens, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing, this dish offers a balanced mix of macros perfect for a low-carb lifestyle.

For those tracking macros, a typical serving contains roughly 300–350 calories, 25g of protein, 20g of healthy fats, and just 5g of net carbs. If you’re looking for more protein-rich seafood options, try this spicy grilled shrimp or a grilled shrimp bowl for variety.

Studies suggest that diets rich in seafood, like this Cuban-inspired dish, can improve metabolic health. For more keto-friendly meal ideas, check out this slow-cooker beef stew as a hearty alternative.

Can I make keto shrimp salad healthier and still delicious?

Absolutely! This keto shrimp salad is already a nutritious choice, but you can tweak it for even better health benefits without sacrificing flavor. Here are some smart swaps:

Lighter Dressing Options

Swap the traditional mayo in the dressing for Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamier, lower-calorie alternative. If you love zesty flavors, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang. For more inspiration on healthy dressings, check out this guide to light and flavorful sauces.

Boost the Veggies

Add more greens like spinach, arugula, or kale for extra fiber and nutrients. You can also toss in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for crunch. If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate veggies into your meals, this shrimp and green bean stir-fry is a great option.

Leaner Protein Choices

While shrimp is already a lean protein, you can mix in grilled chicken or flaked salmon for variety. For another delicious seafood idea, try this spicy grilled shrimp recipe.

Lower-Carb Crunch

Instead of croutons, try toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for a keto-friendly crunch. For more low-carb snack ideas, this pecan sandies recipe offers a tasty alternative.

How to Serve Keto Shrimp Salad?

This refreshing keto shrimp salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. For a light lunch, serve it over crisp butter lettuce or alongside spicy grilled shrimp for extra protein. It also pairs beautifully with low-carb crepes for a brunch twist.

For a heartier meal, try it as a filling in grilled shrimp bowls with cauliflower rice. Garnish with avocado slices, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. If you’re hosting, serve it in martini glasses for an elegant touch, or pair it with sugar-free desserts for a complete keto-friendly spread.

Avoid These Mistakes

Even the simplest keto shrimp salad can go wrong if you overlook key details. Here are common pitfalls and how to dodge them:

Overcooking the Shrimp

Rubbery shrimp ruin the texture. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. For foolproof results, try our spicy grilled shrimp guide for timing tips.

Skipping the Acid

Without lime juice or vinegar, flavors fall flat. A study by The Stay at Home Chef shows acid balances fat-heavy dishes perfectly.

Drowning in Dressing

Too much dressing makes the salad soggy. Toss lightly—you can always add more. Pair with crisp greens from our grilled shrimp bowl recipe for ideal texture.

Using Old Spices

Stale seasonings mute flavors. As noted by Cooked by Julie, ground spices lose potency after 6 months. Always check expiration dates.

The best way to store leftover keto shrimp salad

To keep your keto shrimp salad fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to a month. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy chilled—avoid microwaving to preserve texture. For more seafood storage tips, check out our guide on storing grilled shrimp or explore freezer-friendly shrimp recipes. Need inspiration? The Stay at Home Chef’s slow-cooker storage tips or Julie’s quick bean storage hacks offer great cross-recipe insights.

Ready to give keto shrimp salad a try?

This refreshing and protein-packed dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, low-carb meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. Whether you’re following a strict keto diet or simply want a light yet filling option, this keto shrimp salad delivers on taste and nutrition. The zesty lime dressing adds a bright, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp and crisp veggies.

For more delicious shrimp recipes, check out our spicy grilled shrimp, grilled shrimp bowl, Greek-inspired shrimp saganaki, or creamy shrimp scampi pasta.

Give this recipe a go—it’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for meal prep, lunches, or a light dinner. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for keto shrimp salad?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just thaw and pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

How long does keto shrimp salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 2 days.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare the components separately and assemble before serving for best texture.

Can I substitute the lime dressing?

Yes, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar make great alternatives for the zesty dressing.

What’s the best way to cook shrimp for this salad?

Quick sautéing or grilling (like in our spicy grilled shrimp recipe) works best.

Can I add other proteins to this salad?

Certainly! Chicken or crab meat would complement the flavors well.