Aztec Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad combining shrimp, pasta, colorful peppers, and a tangy ketchup-based dressing, perfect for casual gatherings and summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil and devein shrimp, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, picante sauce, and honey; then mix.
- Add red and green peppers, then stir.
- Add cooked shrimp and stir.
- Boil pasta and drain. While warm, add to the mixture and stir completely.
- When cool, spread over a bed of lettuce and serve with chips of your choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the cocktail shrimp with grilled chicken for a heartier version. You can also add black beans for extra protein and fiber. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor. Using fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the freshness of the salad, complementing the Mexican recipes theme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Aztec Salad as a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips for a crunchy texture. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled fish or chicken. This dish also makes a vibrant addition to any picnic spread, alongside other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and shrimp mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Serve cold or at room temperature for best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aztec Salad contains roughly 503 calories, with 5g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2829mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep the shrimp and pasta mixture separate from the lettuce until you're ready to serve. This will help maintain the crispness of the lettuce.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with avocado slices or a side of grilled corn for a fresh touch. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Mexican Fish Fillets or even spicy fish tacos.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad can be portioned into meal prep containers. Just remember to keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess. It makes a great grab-and-go lunch option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).