There are times when you want a meal that feels light, refreshing, and still leaves you satisfied. That’s exactly where apple almond shrimp salad comes in. Imagine crisp apple slices, crunchy almonds, and tender shrimp coming together in a bowl of greens, all tied together with a tangy-sweet dressing. It’s the kind of dish that balances indulgence and nourishment in every bite.
This isn’t just another salad—it’s one that feels gourmet without being complicated. You can serve it for a weekday lunch, enjoy it as a healthy dinner, or even bring it to gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. If you love shrimp-based meals, you’ll also enjoy this flavorful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa, another protein-packed option that’s fresh and satisfying.
What Is Apple Almond Shrimp Salad?
At its core, apple almond shrimp salad is a protein-packed salad that pairs sweet apples, nutty almonds, and savory shrimp over a bed of fresh greens. Unlike a plain garden salad, this one gives you a mix of flavors and textures that make each bite interesting.
- Apples bring a crisp sweetness.
- Almonds add crunch and healthy fats.
- Shrimp provides lean protein and a touch of elegance.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can keep it simple with a few fresh ingredients or dress it up with cheese, dried fruits, or even grains like quinoa.
Why You’ll Love Apple Almond Shrimp Salad
Flavor Combination That Wows
You don’t often find a salad that combines sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and seafood so seamlessly. The apples and almonds balance the savory shrimp, creating layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.
Nutritious and Satisfying
This salad isn’t just tasty—it’s good for you too. With lean protein from shrimp, fiber from apples, and vitamins from leafy greens, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that feels light but filling.
- Protein from shrimp keeps you energized.
- Vitamin C from apples supports your immune system.
- Healthy fats from almonds promote heart health.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re packing lunch for work, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or setting the table for guests, this salad fits right in. It’s elegant enough for entertaining and easy enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Apple Almond Shrimp Salad
You won’t need anything fancy—just fresh, wholesome ingredients.
For the Salad
- 1 lb cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best flavor)
- ½ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Apple Almond Shrimp Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, give them a quick rinse and pat dry. If starting with raw shrimp, sauté them in olive oil with garlic until pink and tender.
Step 2: Prep the Apples and Almonds
Thinly slice your apples, leaving the skin on for color and nutrients. Toast the almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant—this step adds incredible depth of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Add mixed greens to a large bowl, then top with shrimp, apple slices, and almonds. Sprinkle with cheese if you’re using it.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Drizzle the dressing on the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to combine and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji to avoid sogginess.
- Toast almonds for extra flavor and crunch.
- Add dressing just before serving to keep greens fresh.
Fun Variations
- Protein Swap: Try grilled chicken, salmon, or even tofu.
- Fruit Twist: Add cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or pear slices.
- Cheese Options: Feta adds tang, while blue cheese brings bold flavor.
- Grain Bowl: Toss in quinoa or farro for a heartier version.
- Hearty seafood dish: Try this comforting Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo packed with flavor.
How to Serve Apple Almond Shrimp Salad
This salad is versatile enough to serve in many different ways:
- Serve as a main course alongside crusty bread or garlic toast.
- As a starter for a dinner party.
- As part of a brunch spread alongside fruit platters and pastries.
- As a meal prep option, packed in containers for quick weekday lunches.
- Pair this salad with something comforting on the side, like these unique Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls, for a fun twist.
Storing & Meal Prep Tips
One of the great things about this recipe is how well it works for meal prep.
- Keep the undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Dressing can be made ahead and stored separately for up to 5 days.
- Cook shrimp in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to use.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, Simply store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
What type of apples work best?
Honeycrisp and Fuji for sweetness, or Granny Smith if you prefer a tart bite.
Can I substitute almonds with another nut?
Absolutely. Walnuts, pecans, or cashews all work well.
Is apple almond shrimp salad healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients while being low in carbs.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, Omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free option.
Apple almond shrimp salad proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring. With its crisp apples, crunchy almonds, and tender shrimp, every bite feels refreshing and indulgent at the same time. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining.
So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, whisk up the quick dressing, and see how this salad can become one of your go-to recipes. Once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
If you enjoy fresh, wholesome salads, you might also like this Southwest Chicken Salad, another balanced and protein-rich recipe.
Ready to refresh your salad game? Make this apple almond shrimp salad today and share it with friends or family—it’s a dish that’s too good to keep to yourself.
Apple Almond Shrimp Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 apples Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith
- ½ cup sliced almonds toasted
- 4 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, or romaine
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese optional
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If raw, sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink and cooked through. If pre-cooked, rinse and pat dry.
- Slice the Apples & Toast Almonds: Thinly slice apples. Toast almonds in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Assemble the Salad: Add greens to a bowl. Top with shrimp, apple slices, almonds, and cheese (if using).
- Make the Dressing: Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Toss & Serve: Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly and enjoy fresh.
Notes
- Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to prevent sogginess.
- Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor.
- Store salad without dressing in the fridge for up to 2 days.
