Walnut-Shrimp Salad
A vibrant, refreshing salad combining sweet oranges, crunchy walnuts, and tender shrimp, perfect for light lunches or elegant appetizer platters with a citrusy dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate walnuts, shrimp, celery, and oranges in French dressing for 30 minutes before serving.
- Chill the salad until ready to serve.
- Arrange on lettuce leaves for salad plates.
- Sprinkle with additional garlic salt, if desired.
- Garnish with watercress before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the marinade. If fresh oranges aren't available, canned mandarin oranges can be a great substitute. You can also swap out the walnuts for pecans if preferred, and use low-fat French dressing for a lighter option. Always toast the nuts for a richer flavor before adding them to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Walnut-Shrimp Salad over a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light soup, such as a tomato basil. For an attractive touch, garnish with additional watercress and a sprinkle of garlic salt. This dish is also perfect for summer gatherings or as part of a seafood recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may cause the salad to become soggy, so it's best to keep the walnuts and dressing separate if possible. To refresh the salad before serving, toss gently and add a touch more dressing if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut-Shrimp Salad contains roughly 479 calories, with 20g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 797mg per serving (35% 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 salad?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help retain the salad's texture. Cooked shrimp can be seasoned lightly with salt and pepper before adding to the salad for extra flavor.
What can I substitute for French dressing?
If you prefer a different dressing, a light vinaigrette or a homemade citrus dressing would work well. Combining olive oil, vinegar, and a bit of orange juice can create a refreshing alternative that complements the shrimp and walnuts beautifully.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding ingredients like diced avocado or cooked quinoa. Both options add healthy fats and protein, making it a more substantial meal. You can also serve it alongside a side of whole grain crackers or a light pasta dish.
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).