30-Minute Baja Shrimp Salad
A fresh and vibrant salad featuring seasoned shrimp over crisp romaine lettuce with diced cucumber, creamy avocado, and spicy jalapeños. The zesty cilantro-lime dressing with garlic and apple cider vinegar brings bright, Mexican-inspired flavors to this satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, especially during warm weather when you want something refreshing yet filling.
Ingredients
- 14 ounce Romaine Lettuce, cut and washed
- 2 regular Jalapeño Peppers, membranes and seeds removed, diced
- 8 ounce Cucumber, diced
- 6 ounce Avocado, diced
- 14 ounce Shrimp
- 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil
- 1 ¼ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 2 tablespoon Cilantro
- ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ¼ cup Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 teaspoon Coarse Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 clove Garlic
- 2 ounce Queso ChihuahuaMonterey Jack1:1cheese
similar mild Mexican cheese
Instructions
- 1
Cut and wash romaine lettuce
- 2
Remove membranes and seeds from jalapeño and dice
- 3
Dice cucumber and avocado and refrigerate until ready to use
- 4
Heat large nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat
- 5
Add avocado oil to hot pan
- 6
Add half the shrimp and half the Old Bay seasoning to very hot pan
- 7
Cook until shrimp are no longer pink
- 8
Repeat with remaining shrimp and seasoning, adding more oil if necessary
- 9
Combine remaining ingredients to make dressing and whisk well
- 10
Divide lettuce onto plates
- 11
Add cucumbers, avocados and jalapeños in rows
- 12
Top with shrimp and cheese
- 13
Drizzle dressing over top and serve immediately
Tips
Keep prepared vegetables refrigerated until assembly to maintain freshness and crispness.
Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking.
Serve immediately after adding dressing to prevent lettuce from wilting.
Good to Know
Refrigerate assembled salad for up to 1 day, though best served fresh.
Prep vegetables and make dressing up to 1 day ahead. Cook shrimp just before serving.
Serve immediately after assembly at room temperature.
Common Mistakes
Avoid overcrowding shrimp in pan to prevent steaming instead of searing.
Don't add dressing too early to prevent wilted lettuce.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking to remove excess moisture and ensure proper searing.
What if I can't find Queso Chihuahua cheese?
Substitute with Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or mild white cheddar cheese for similar flavor and texture.
How long will the dressing keep?
The cilantro-lime dressing will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days in a sealed container.