Mediterranean Shrimp & Egg Garden Salad
This vibrant Mediterranean salad is a celebration of fresh, healthy ingredients. Featuring grilled or pan-seared shrimp, creamy hard-boiled eggs, crisp romaine, frisée, red cabbage, and juicy vegetables, it’s tossed with a zesty lemon-mustard vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a beautiful brunch plate, this salad delivers flavor, balance, and nutrition in every bite.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Salad:
½ lb (225g) cooked shrimp (grilled or pan-seared)
2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
½ cup shredded red cabbage
½ cup frisée (curly endive)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber slices
¼ cup sweet corn kernels (canned or cooked)
Optional Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
1 tsp mustard (Dijon preferred)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
If starting with raw shrimp, season lightly with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked. Let cool slightly.
Boil the Eggs:
If not already done, place eggs in boiling water for 9–10 minutes, then cool in an ice bath and peel. Slice in halves.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or balsamic), mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or platter, layer the romaine, red cabbage, and frisée. Arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, corn kernels, hard-boiled eggs, and shrimp on top.
Dress & Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss if desired, or serve as-is for a composed look. Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley if you like.
Tips for Best Results
Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp for Speed: Save time by using good-quality pre-cooked shrimp—just rinse and pat dry before adding to the salad.
Chill Ingredients: For a refreshing crunch, chill the vegetables and eggs before assembling.
Cook Eggs Just Right: For creamy yolks, boil for 9–10 minutes and immediately place in an ice bath.
Balance Your Dressing: Taste the vinaigrette before using—add more lemon for acidity or olive oil to mellow it out.
Serve Immediately After Dressing: To keep the greens crisp, add the dressing just before serving.
Make It a Meal Prep Staple: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers and assemble when ready to eat.
Variations
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, tuna, salmon, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Add Cheese: Crumble feta or shaved parmesan adds richness and saltiness.
Boost with Avocado: Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
Herb Upgrade: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill, mint, or basil to elevate the freshness.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle with red chili flakes or drizzle with a spicy tahini sauce for heat.
Grain Bowl Style: Serve over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or farro to make it more filling.
Pickled Veggies: Add pickled onions or artichokes for a tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store the dressing separately and add it right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely. Thaw completely, pat dry, and cook as directed (pan-seared or grilled).
Q: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A: It’s excellent! Store each component separately (especially the eggs and dressing), then assemble just before eating.
Q: What can I substitute for frisée?
A: Arugula, spinach, or baby kale work well and provide a similar texture with varying flavors.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes — simply skip the optional cheese or use a dairy-free feta-style alternative.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Based on 3 servings
Calories: 280–320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 450mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on shrimp size, dressing quantity, and optional ingredients.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Shrimp & Egg Garden Salad is a crisp, colorful, and nourishing dish that fits any occasion — whether you need a quick weekday lunch or a refreshing dinner. With simple prep, customizable ingredients, and a zesty vinaigrette, this salad is the perfect combination of health and flavor. Serve it as-is or turn it into a protein-packed grain bowl for added heartiness.