Shrimp Caesar Salad – Fresh & Protein-Packed

Shrimp Caesar Salad is a fresh, satisfying twist on the classic favorite. Juicy seasoned shrimp, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing come together for a balanced meal that works for lunch or dinner. It feels light, flavorful, and filling without being heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High-protein and satisfying without feeling heavy
• Juicy shrimp add bold flavor and texture
• Quick to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
• Restaurant-quality salad made at home

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup Caesar dressing
• ½ cup croutons
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat skillet over medium heat and cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Remove shrimp from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
4. Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large bowl.
5. Add Caesar dressing and toss until evenly coated.
6. Top salad with cooked shrimp, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately while shrimp are warm and lettuce is crisp.

Tips & Variations

• Grill shrimp instead of pan-searing for smoky flavor
• Use homemade Caesar dressing for deeper taste
• Add cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness
• Swap shrimp with chicken or salmon if needed
• Use whole-grain croutons for added crunch

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store shrimp and salad separately for up to 2 days
• Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp only, up to 1 month
• Reheating: Gently reheat shrimp in skillet before serving
• Keep dressing separate to avoid soggy lettuce
• Best assembled fresh for texture

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or flatbread
• Pair with sparkling water or lemonade
• Add soup on the side for a full meal
• Works well as a light dinner or hearty lunch
• Finish with extra Parmesan for presentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but warm them briefly in a skillet with seasoning for best flavor and texture.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, store shrimp, lettuce, and dressing separately and assemble before eating.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free Caesar dressing and skip Parmesan cheese.

What size shrimp works best?

Large shrimp provide the best bite and presentation for salads.

Ready to Make It?

Shrimp Caesar Salad delivers bold flavor, crisp texture, and satisfying protein in every bite. It’s an easy, reliable recipe you can turn to for quick meals that still feel fresh and restaurant-worthy.

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