Quick Shrimp Quinoa Salad

Name: Quick Shrimp Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fast Meal Recipes

I love quick and nutritious meals, and this Quick Shrimp Quinoa Salad has become a staple in my kitchen. It takes only 30 minutes to prepare and offers a delightful blend of flavors. The shrimp adds a lovely protein boost while the quinoa serves as a perfect base, making it both hearty and satisfying. The bright colors from the veggies not only make the dish visually appealing but also pack in essential nutrients. This salad is my go-to for lunch or a light dinner that doesn't compromise on taste.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:41:27.890Z

When I first experimented with this Quick Shrimp Quinoa Salad, I wanted something that combined speed and flavor, and it definitely delivered! The combination of the perfectly cooked quinoa with tender shrimp creates a satisfying dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to prepare. I make it often during the busy week, as it’s a great way to utilize leftover ingredients.

One of my best tips is to let the quinoa cool before adding the dressing. This step enhances the flavors and ensures each ingredient shines through. The balance of the lemony dressing with crisp vegetables makes it refreshing, perfect for a warm day or meal prep for the week!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fast preparation with minimal cleanup
Packed with protein and fresh veggies
Great served warm or as a chilled salad
Versatile ingredients you can customize easily

Choosing the Right Quinoa

When selecting quinoa, consider the variety. White quinoa is the most common and has a mild flavor, making it perfect for this salad. Red quinoa holds its shape better and adds an appealing color contrast, while black quinoa offers a slightly earthier taste. Using a combination of these varieties can provide both a unique flavor profile and visual interest to your dish. Make sure to rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness from the saponins on its surface.

For those who are gluten-sensitive or looking for alternatives, quinoa is an excellent choice because it's a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an ideal base for a nutritious meal. If you're seeking a low-carb option, consider substituting cauliflower rice instead of quinoa, but note that the cooking method will differ to avoid excessive moisture.

Perfecting the Shrimp

When sautéing shrimp, keep an eye on their color and texture. They should turn a lovely pink and opaque when fully cooked, typically within three to four minutes over medium heat. Be careful not to overcook them; they can become rubbery. For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes in lemon juice and a pinch of smoked paprika before cooking, enhancing their taste profile and complementing the freshness of the salad.

If fresh shrimp isn't available, feel free to use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and rinse them before cooking to remove excess moisture. This ensures that they cook evenly and don't become watery in your salad.

Serving and Storing the Salad

This salad is wonderfully versatile—serve it warm right after combining all the ingredients, or allow it to chill for a refreshing cold option. If you prepare it in advance, adding the cherry tomatoes closer to serving time will help maintain their texture and prevent excess moisture from making the salad soggy. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they'll stay fresh for up to three days, making for an excellent quick lunch or snack.

To elevate the flavors, consider adding a handful of feta or goat cheese for creaminess, or sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also change the flavor profile considerably—it's all about finding what you enjoy and tailoring the recipe to your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the salad:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, sautéed shrimp, diced bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, then toss gently to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Enjoy your refreshing and protein-packed salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in garlic and herbs before sautéing. You can also substitute any vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Shrimp Quinoa Salad is not only flavorful but also brimming with health benefits. Quinoa is a fantastic source of fiber, iron, and magnesium, making it excellent for maintaining a balanced diet. The addition of fresh vegetables contributes vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health. Shrimp, being a lean protein, helps in building muscle while being low in calories—perfect for a satisfying meal without the guilt.

Incorporating a variety of veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers not only enhances the nutritional value but also brings a refreshing crunch and vibrant colors to the plate. The antioxidants in the tomatoes might support heart health, turning this simple dish into a powerhouse of nutrition.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best aspects of this salad is its versatility. Tailor the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swap out the bell pepper for avocado to add creaminess, or use edamame instead of shrimp for a plant-based version. You can even throw in some cooked beans for an added protein boost, making it a fulfilling meal any time.

Additionally, if you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cumin or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Playing with dressings is another fun way to renew this salad; a yogurt-based dressing could complement the shrimp beautifully, adding tanginess and creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace shrimp with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein.

→ What other dressings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with your favorite dressings, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing.