Peeps, this Cajun Shrimp Salad Recipe comes together so easily and is ready to serve in just minutes. Perfect for your upcoming Mardi Gras celebration, or anytime you’re craving a healthy (did I mention this salad is contains zero WW points?!) way to enjoy the bold flavour of Cajun Cuisine.
What is Cajun Cuisine?
Originating from the Acadiana region of Louisiana, Cajun cuisine is a rustic-style of cooking that relies on local ingredients and a simple preparation. Best known for bold and complex flavours, Cajun cooking relies on a seasoning mixture with a signature heat provided by cayenne pepper. Shrimp, crawfish and andouille sausage are staples of Cajun cooking and are featured in a variety of traditional main dishes.
Tools Needed
A large enough skillet for sizzling. Your regular mixing bowl or plate. A slotted turner.
So, are you ready to learn how easy it is to make this delicious Cajun Shrimp Salad Recipe? Then gather up your ingredients and I will show you….
How To Make This Cajun Shrimp Salad Recipe
Mix together Cajun spice, smoked paprika, garlic, salt and 1 tablespoon of water to make it into a bit of a paste. Add in the shrimp and mix till well coated. Heat a skillet over medium till hot and then spray with some cooking spray. Cook the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 mins per side. Note: you may need to add a bit more cooking spray to the pan between batches. If you prefer to cook your shrimp on the grill, the preheat to high, spray shrimp with low calorie spray, then place on grill and cook for 2-3 mins per side. To make the corn, preheat the grill (or grill pan), spray corn with low calorie spray then grill for about 10 mins, turning frequently so that all sides are charred. Once cool, slice off kernels of with a knife and reserve (discard the cob). To assemble the salad, place salad leaves in a large bowl. Then add in bell pepper, green onions, cherry tomatoes and corn kernels. Toss to combine. Add the Cajun shrimp and then top with chopped cilantro.
Tips For Making Cajun Shrimp Salad
Don’t crowd the skillet! Trying to cook too many shrimp at once will cool the pan down and ‘boil’ them instead of frying. Give your shrimp some space and cook them in batches. As this is a healthier Weight Watchers inspired salad, I have not included any dressing. However, if you prefer to add dressing, try this recipe for homemade Cajun Vinaigrette Dressing, courtesy of Genius Kitchen. Want to really kick it up a notch? Add some extra cayenne pepper to make your Cajun Shrimp extra spicy. If you prefer a milder flavour, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.
Can You Use Frozen Shrimp To Make Cajun Shrimp Salad?
You can make this Cajun Shrimp Salad using fresh or frozen shrimp. To defrost frozen shrimp, simply follow one of these two methods: Overnight Defrost Option:
Add frozen shrimp to a bowl. Cover the bowl and put in your refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight. Remove from fridge and drain any water from the shrimp before using.
Quick Defrost Option:
Place the frozen cooked shrimp in a colander or large bowl. Run cold tap water over the shrimp, mixing the shrimp every few mins to ensure they thaw evening. Depending on the size, the shrimp will be thawed in 10 -15 mins. Strain the water completely.
What To Serve With Cajun Shrimp Salad
Easy Squash Casserole. Mashed Potatoes. Easy Skillet Cornbread. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Instant Pot Rice. Air Fryer Baked Potato.
More Flavourful Southern Recipes:
Cajun Crispy Golden Air Fryer Fish Air Fryer Pork Chops Cajun Shrimp Instant Pot Jambalaya Smothered Pork Chops. Smothered Chicken.
Weight Watchers Points
This recipe contains 0 Blue Plan SmartPoints! Thank you for reading my Cajun Shrimp Salad Recipe post. And please come visit again as I continue dreaming up recipes, traditional African recipes, African fusion recipes, Sierra Leone recipes, travel plans and much more for you. Thanks for supporting Recipes from a Pantry, UK food blog.
