When I first took a bite of this Bang Bang Shrimp Salad, the explosion of flavors was a delightful surprise. The combination of tender, juicy shrimp and crunchy broccoli slaw enveloped in a creamy, zesty sauce sent my taste buds dancing. In just 15 minutes, I found a healthy alternative to those heavier fried shrimp dishes I used to indulge in—without sacrificing the incredible flavor!
As the cooler days set in, I love having light yet satisfying meals like this on my dinner table. This dish is not just a quick fix for busy weeknights; it’s a vibrant salad that feels indulgent while keeping the calories in check. If you’re searching for a meal that’s perfectly balanced, both nutritious and delicious, grab your skillet and let’s whip up this crowd-pleasing Bang Bang Shrimp Salad together!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp Salad a Must-Try?
Flavor Burst: The zesty bang bang sauce paired with juicy shrimp creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.
Healthier Choice: With low calories and high protein, it’s a guilt-free option for those mindful of their nutrition.
Crunchy Freshness: The vibrant broccoli slaw adds a delightful crunch, making every bite satisfying.
Versatile Serving: Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this salad pairs beautifully with quinoa or brown rice.
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Broccoli Slaw – This crunchy base adds fiber and nutrients; if you prefer, regular cabbage slaw can be used but may become soggy.
• Raw Shrimp – Provides protein and hearty texture; use wild-caught fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing shrimp; it adds richness, but avocado oil can be a healthier alternative.
• Lime – Enhances acidity and freshness; lemon juice is a suitable substitution in a pinch.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; season to your taste.
• Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is recommended for potency, but garlic powder may be used.
• Fresh Cilantro (chopped) – Provides a fresh, herbaceous note; parsley can work for a milder flavor.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Greek Yogurt – A creamy protein-rich base for the sauce; sour cream can add a tangy twist if preferred.
• Sriracha – Brings the heat and spice to the sauce; feel free to use any hot sauce, though flavors may vary.
• Maple Syrup – Balances the spice with sweetness; honey is a great alternative for a similar flavor.
Join me in preparing this delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Salad that’s not only quick but bursting with flavor!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
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Prepare the Broccoli Slaw: In a large bowl, add the crunchy broccoli slaw and set it aside. This will be the refreshing base of your salad, adding a delightful crunch.
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Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein your raw shrimp, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This marinade infuses the shrimp with vibrant flavors.
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Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the seasoned shrimp in it. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp become opaque and are perfectly tender.
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Mix the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth to create that zesty, creamy bang bang sauce that ties everything together.
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Coat the Shrimp: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the heat and coat them with 1 tablespoon of the bang bang sauce, ensuring they are well covered.
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Season the Slaw: In the bowl with the broccoli slaw, season it with salt, pepper, and lime juice from half a lime. Add the chopped cilantro and the remaining bang bang sauce (save a little for drizzling later) and mix well.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the shrimp with the slaw until evenly distributed. Plate your vibrant salad and drizzle with the reserved sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra zesty touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
- Taco Twist: Swap out the salad for warm corn tortillas and turn it into delightful shrimp tacos.
- Veggie Boost: Add vibrant radishes or sweet bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
- Creamy Avocado: Toss in diced avocado for a rich and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist that balances the spicy sauce.
- Herb Variety: Swap cilantro for fresh mint or basil for a different herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles instead of slaw for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked until opaque for the best texture; overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Heat Level: Adjust sriracha based on your spice preference; start with less and gradually add more to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain crunchiness, toss the slaw with the sauce just before serving, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Zest It Up: Don’t forget to reserve a little bang bang sauce for drizzling on top before serving; it enhances the flavor beautifully!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and lime juice elevates the dish; they bring more vibrant flavors compared to their powdered or bottled counterparts.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. The sauce may thicken as it absorbs moisture from the broccoli slaw.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad due to the nature of the ingredients; the shrimp can become rubbery and the slaw wilted when thawed.
Reheating: If you need to reheat the shrimp, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, but it’s best served cold.
Serving Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy this Bang Bang Shrimp Salad fresh right after preparation, making it a perfect quick meal for busy nights!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Salad?
Looking to complete your meal with perfect pairings that enhance the zesty flavors of your salad?
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Crispy Quinoa Fritters: These crunchy fritters provide a hearty texture while complementing the shrimp’s protein-packed goodness. Their nuttiness pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these add a warm, comforting touch to the meal, allowing you to savor each bite of that flavorful bang bang sauce.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bursting with natural sweetness, this vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate between bites of the spicy shrimp.
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Coconut Chia Pudding: With its creamy, indulgent texture, this dessert brings a mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the salad, making for a delightful finish.
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Cucumber Mint Water: This invigorating beverage is perfect for balancing the meal. The cooling cucumber and aromatic mint refresh the palate alongside the spicy shrimp.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly cooked with garlic and olive oil, these add a lovely crunch and vegetable-forward flavor that’s complementary yet vibrant against the salad.
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Asian Sesame Noodles: A flavorful side dish that nods to the Asian inspirations of the bang bang sauce, these noodles delight with their sesame flavor and slightly chewy texture.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy side brings extra crunch and a fun flavor twist that pairs nicely with the savory shrimp. It keeps the meal colorful and exciting.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Salad ingredients are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the broccoli slaw and the bang bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. The shrimp can also be marinated (with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper) up to 3 hours beforehand for extra flavor. When you’re ready to serve, cook the marinated shrimp and combine them with the chilled slaw and sauce. Just a quick toss will yield a fresh, zesty meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it all on the spot!
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using wild-caught fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined. This way, you’ll get a tender and juicy bite, making your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad truly irresistible.
How do I store leftovers of the Bang Bang Shrimp Salad?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the bang bang sauce may thicken due to moisture from the broccoli slaw, but it will still be delicious!
Can I freeze this salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad. The shrimp might become rubbery, and the slaw could wilt when thawed, removing that delightful crunch. I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best experience!
What if I want to adjust the spice level of the sauce?
No problem at all! Start with a smaller amount of sriracha to gauge your spice tolerance. You can always add more to taste. Also, if you prefer milder heat, consider using a milder hot sauce instead.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by swapping shrimp for crispy chickpeas or tofu. If you have specific allergies, check the ingredients like yogurt and hot sauce to ensure they meet your dietary needs—there are many alternatives available, such as dairy-free yogurt!
How can I enhance the texture of the salad?
A fantastic idea! To elevate the crunchy factor, consider adding more vegetables like shredded carrots, radishes, or bell peppers. This not only boosts nutritional value but gives you an even more delightful blend of textures in your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.
Zesty Bang Bang Shrimp Salad: Healthy & Quick for Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add the crunchy broccoli slaw and set it aside.
- Peel and devein your raw shrimp, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the seasoned shrimp in it. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp become opaque.
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth to create the bang bang sauce.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the heat and coat them with 1 tablespoon of the bang bang sauce.
- In the bowl with the broccoli slaw, season it with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add chopped cilantro and the remaining sauce.
- Toss the shrimp with the slaw until evenly distributed and plate the salad, drizzling with reserved sauce.