Oriental Shrimp Salad
A vibrant, refreshing shrimp salad with crisp vegetables and a tangy Italian and soy sauce dressing, perfect for light lunches or summer dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 c. uncooked rice ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. shrimp, cleaned, cooked and chopped ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can bean sprouts, drained ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can water chestnuts, drained and thinly sliced
- 1/2 c. sliced celery ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped pimiento
- 2 green onions, sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 c. low calorie Italian dressing ⓘ
- 1/4 c. soy sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook rice and let it cool.
- Combine the cooled rice, cooked and chopped shrimp, drained bean sprouts, sliced water chestnuts, sliced celery, chopped green pepper, chopped pimiento, and sliced green onions in a large bowl.
- Add the low calorie Italian dressing and soy sauce, then toss to combine.
- Chill the salad for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute quinoa for rice, adding more protein and fiber. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider using fresh bean sprouts instead of canned. You can also swap shrimp for cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein source. To enhance the salad's flavor, add a splash of lime juice or sesame oil for an Asian twist, similar to flavors found in seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch or alongside grilled chicken for a heartier dinner. It pairs beautifully with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with additional Asian-inspired dishes like Mock Abalone or Easy Crawfish Etouffee, enhancing the flavors and creating a diverse dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. If you need to reheat, warm gently in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery. Enjoy cold for a refreshing meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Shrimp Salad contains roughly 675 calories, with 15g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed completely and cooked before adding them to the salad. This can save time and is often more convenient, especially if you have limited access to fresh seafood.
What can I substitute for the low calorie Italian dressing?
If you don't have low calorie Italian dressing, you can use a homemade vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, and your choice of herbs. A sesame dressing would also complement the flavors well, adding a nutty richness to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the rice from becoming too soggy. It can be stored in individual portions, making it a convenient and nutritious option for busy days.
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).