As the weather grows warmer and the days lengthen, there’s nothing quite as refreshing and satisfying as a light, zesty, and utterly delicious Shrimp & Orange Salad. This vibrant dish perfectly marries the succulent sweetness of roasted shrimp with the bright tang of fresh fruit and the crispness of tender greens. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a healthy, flavorful meal that can be prepared with minimal fuss.

While there are countless Shrimp Salad Recipes, this particular rendition stands out for its exceptional lightness and the invigorating punch of its delightful Citrus Vinaigrette. It moves beyond the traditional mayonnaise-based salads, offering a modern, fresh alternative that is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. Prepare to elevate your salad game with this simple yet sophisticated creation.

Why This Shrimp & Orange Salad is Your Next Favorite Meal

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, health, and exceptional flavor. Here’s why this particular Shrimp & Orange Salad deserves a coveted spot in your recipe rotation:

• Effortless & Lightning-Fast Cooking: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The plump shrimp require a mere 3 minutes under the broiler. This quick cooking time makes it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. From start to finish, you can have this exquisite meal on your table in under 30 minutes.
• A Health-Conscious Entrée That Hits the Spot: When you’re in need of a lighter, yet utterly fulfilling, healthy meal, an entrée salad perfectly fits the bill. This salad is a symphony of crisp, nutrient-dense greens, naturally sweet berries, luscious citrus segments, and lean, protein-packed broiled shrimp. Each ingredient contributes to a well-balanced dish that nourishes your body and tantalizes your taste buds. It’s low in calories but rich in flavor and essential nutrients like Vitamin C, fiber, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: While portioned as a generous first course, this salad is incredibly adaptable. Doubling the recipe transforms it into a fabulous entree, especially when accompanied by some crusty artisan bread to soak up the delectable vinaigrette and a glass of chilled white wine to complement the vibrant flavors. It’s elegant enough for entertaining guests yet simple enough for an everyday lunch or dinner.
• Bursting with Seasonal Flavors: This salad celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients. The bright citrus notes, sweet berries, and tender shrimp evoke the feeling of spring and summer, making it an ideal dish to enjoy when produce is at its peak. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both invigorating and deeply satisfying.

How to Make This Healthy Shrimp Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide

While I certainly adore a classic, creamy shrimp salad tucked between soft bread, this particular shrimp salad offers a completely different, yet equally captivating, experience. It’s light, bursting with natural flavors, and beautifully complemented by a simple, homemade citrus vinaigrette, crisp greens, and an assortment of fresh fruits. Follow these straightforward steps to create your own:

1. Prepare the Shrimp Marinade: Begin by combining fresh lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized bowl. If desired, season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper (a scant ½ teaspoon of kosher salt works wonderfully to enhance the flavors). This simple marinade will tenderize the shrimp and infuse them with bright, zesty notes.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add your peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for approximately 20 minutes. This short marinating time is perfect for infusing flavor without “cooking” the shrimp with the acid.
3. Broil the Shrimp to Perfection: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your broiler. Line a broiler pan with non-stick foil for easy cleanup. Once the shrimp have finished marinating, arrange them in a single layer on the prepared broiler pan. Place the pan on the top rack of your oven, ensuring it’s a few inches below the heating element. Broil for about 1½ minutes per side, or just until the shrimp turn opaque and pink, forming a ‘C’ shape. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery quickly. Remove from the broiler and let them cool slightly while you prepare the dressing.
4. Whisk the Citrus Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice (don’t forget to squeeze any remaining juice from the orange membranes after segmenting for maximum flavor!), champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. The Dijon acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar combine beautifully. Season the vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of fresh black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed with a tiny bit more honey or vinegar.
5. Assemble and Arrange Your Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss your fresh greens with a portion of the prepared citrus vinaigrette, ensuring the leaves are lightly coated. Divide the dressed greens among 4 salad bowls or plates. Artfully arrange the fresh orange segments, sliced strawberries, and 3 broiled shrimp over the greens in each bowl.
6. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and freshest taste, serve your Shrimp & Orange Salad immediately after assembly. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma are best enjoyed right away.

Ingredient Spotlight: Crafting the Perfect Shrimp & Orange Salad

The success of this light and healthy salad hinges on the quality and preparation of its key ingredients. Understanding each component enhances both the flavor and nutritional value of your dish.

The Star: Jumbo Shrimp

Shrimp is a lean protein powerhouse, rich in selenium, B12, and phosphorus. For this recipe, “jumbo” shrimp (typically 21-25 count per pound) are ideal as they offer a substantial bite and cook quickly without drying out. Ensure they are peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen (and properly thawed) are both excellent choices. The brief lemon-olive oil marinade adds a bright, zesty note that perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness and ensures a tender texture.

Vibrant Citrus: Oranges

Oranges are more than just a sweet, juicy addition; they are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Using a mix of varieties, such as two blood oranges for their stunning color and one navel orange for its classic sweetness, adds depth and visual appeal. The technique of “supreming” the oranges (removing the peel, pith, and membranes to get clean segments) is crucial here. It eliminates bitterness and tough textures, leaving you with pure, juicy citrus bursts. Remember to reserve any juice released during this process for your vinaigrette!

Crisp Foundation: Fresh Greens

The base of any good salad is its greens. Watercress, with its peppery bite, provides an exciting contrast to the sweet fruit and savory shrimp. However, feel free to use a mix of baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix if you prefer. These greens offer a wealth of vitamins (A, C, K) and fiber, making the salad incredibly nutrient-dense. Their crisp texture is vital, so ensure they are thoroughly washed and dried before dressing.

Sweet Accent: Ripe Strawberries

Sliced ripe strawberries add a beautiful pop of color, natural sweetness, and an additional boost of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Their soft texture and slight tang complement the other ingredients wonderfully, creating a balanced and flavorful bite. Choose firm, brightly colored berries for the best taste and appearance.

The Unifying Element: Citrus Vinaigrette

The homemade citrus vinaigrette is the heart of this salad, bringing all the flavors together. Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and a rich base. The combination of fresh orange juice and champagne vinegar delivers a balanced acidity that is both bright and mellow. A touch of honey rounds out the flavors with a hint of sweetness, while Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, creating a smooth, cohesive dressing. Seasoning with salt and pepper ensures the vinaigrette is perfectly balanced and enhances every bite.

Tips for Success: Making Your Shrimp & Orange Salad Extraordinary

Achieving a truly exceptional Shrimp & Orange Salad is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is nothing short of perfect:

• Quality Ingredients are Key: This salad celebrates fresh produce and seafood. Invest in good quality, fresh shrimp, ripe oranges, and crisp greens. The better your ingredients, the more flavorful your final dish will be.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, especially under the broiler. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Watch them carefully and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. The ‘C’ shape is your visual cue for perfectly cooked shrimp; an ‘O’ shape means they’re overcooked.
• Master the Art of Supreming Oranges: While it might seem like an extra step, supreming oranges makes a huge difference in texture and eliminates any bitterness from the pith. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. If you’re new to this technique, a quick online video search can guide you.
• Balance Your Vinaigrette: Always taste your vinaigrette before dressing the salad. Adjust the acidity with more vinegar or citrus juice, sweetness with a bit more honey, or richness with more olive oil. The goal is a harmonious balance that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the other ingredients.
• Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent your greens from becoming soggy, always toss them with the vinaigrette just before you’re ready to serve. This ensures they remain crisp and vibrant.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Serving a cold salad on a warm day is heavenly. Ensure your greens, fruits, and even the vinaigrette are nicely chilled before assembly.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Shrimp & Orange Salad

This Shrimp & Orange Salad recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Alternate Proteins: Not a fan of shrimp, or looking for something different? Try grilled chicken breast, seared scallops, or even crispy baked tofu for a vegetarian option. Cooked chickpeas can also add a delightful textural and protein boost.
• Explore Other Fruits: While oranges and strawberries are fantastic, consider incorporating other seasonal fruits like segmented grapefruit, thinly sliced mango, blueberries, or even a few slices of avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Mix Up Your Greens: Beyond watercress, spinach, and arugula, consider a base of thinly sliced romaine lettuce for extra crunch, or even a blend of tender baby kale.
• Add a Crunch Factor: Toasted nuts like slivered almonds, pistachios, or candied pecans can provide a delightful textural contrast. Sunflower or pumpkin seeds also work well and add extra nutrients.
• Cheese Please: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese can introduce a tangy, salty element that beautifully complements the sweet and savory components of the salad.
• Herbal Freshness: Fresh herbs like chopped mint, cilantro, or basil can elevate the flavor profile, adding aromatic notes that truly brighten the dish.
• A Hint of Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade or vinaigrette can add a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor experience.
• Vegetable Additions: Thinly sliced cucumber, bell peppers, or red onion can add extra crispness and flavor.

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Benefits of This Healthy Shrimp Salad

Beyond its incredible taste, this Shrimp & Orange Salad is a nutritional champion. Each ingredient contributes to a meal that supports overall health and well-being:

• Lean Protein from Shrimp: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. It’s also low in calories and fat.
• Vitamin C Rich Citrus & Berries: Oranges and strawberries are bursting with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, skin health, and aids in iron absorption.
• Antioxidant Boost: The vibrant colors of the fruits and greens signify a rich content of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
• Healthy Fats from Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, providing monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
• Fiber-Packed Greens: Fresh greens like watercress, spinach, and arugula are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Essential Vitamins & Minerals: This salad delivers a good dose of various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin K, folate, potassium, and B vitamins, all crucial for numerous bodily functions.
• Low-Calorie & Satisfying: Despite being incredibly flavorful and filling, this salad remains relatively low in calories, making it a perfect choice for weight management or simply enjoying a lighter meal without compromising on taste.

More Salad Recipes You’ll Love:

• Easy Greek Salad from Eazy Peazy Mealz
• Citrus Spinach Salad
• Ahi Tuna Nicoise
• Spinach, Strawberry and Pomegranate Feta Salad
• Spicy Mexican Corn Salad
• More Salad Recipes

The Recipe:

Shrimp & Orange Salad Recipe with Citrus Vinaigrette

Prep Time
20 minutes

Cook Time
4 minutes

Total Time
24 minutes

Yield
4 servings

A delightful and healthy spring salad featuring fresh greens, vibrant orange wedges, perfectly roasted shrimp, and a dreamy homemade citrus vinaigrette.

Rated 5 stars by 2 reviewers

Ingredients

Salad:

• 12 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 3 oranges (e.g., 2 blood oranges and 1 navel orange, supremed*, reserving juice)
• 8 ripe strawberries, sliced
• 4 ounces fresh greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or watercress)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Salad Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons orange juice (use reserved juice from supreming oranges)
• 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Shrimp Marinade: Combine fresh lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a medium bowl. Add salt and pepper if desired (a scant ½ teaspoon kosher salt is recommended).
2. Marinate Shrimp: Add shrimp to the bowl, toss to coat, and let marinate for 20 minutes.
3. Broil Shrimp: Preheat the broiler. Cover a broiler pan with non-stick foil. When shrimp are done marinating, place them in a single layer on the pan. Place on the top rack, a few inches below the element. Broil for about 1½ minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Let cool while you make the dressing.
4. Whisk Vinaigrette: Whisk together any reserved juices from the oranges (squeeze membranes for every drop), champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper if desired.
5. Assemble Salad: Toss greens with the salad dressing and divide between 4 salad bowls or plates. Top with orange segments, sliced strawberries, and 3 shrimp per serving.
6. Serve: Serve immediately for best enjoyment.

Notes

*To supreme oranges: carefully peel and remove all white pith with a knife. Then, slice the segments from between the membranes, reserving any juice that drips out.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 316
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 63mg
Sodium: 492mg
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 23g
Protein: 9g

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