Name: Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, snipped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (large, about 15-20 count per pound); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste); 5 oz yellow cherry tomatoes, sliced in half; 5 oz red cherry tomatoes, sliced in half; 1 large cucumber, quartered; 1/3 cup red onion, sliced; 1 avocado, peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces; 3 tablespoons capers; 4 oz Feta cheese (half cubed, half crumbled)

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a salad that bursts with sunshine, fresh garden flavors, and a touch of seaside charm, let me introduce you to the Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe. This dish is a vibrant celebration of juicy shrimp, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a fragrant lemon and herb dressing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm Mediterranean breeze on your plate, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive lunches with friends. Whenever I make this salad, it brightens my whole day, and I’m sure it will do the same for you!

A white bowl filled with a colorful shrimp salad showing about three layers of ingredients. The bottom layer has pieces of cucumber and diced red onion, with vivid red and yellow cherry tomato halves scattered around. The middle layer features cubed avocado and crumbled white cheese, adding creaminess and texture. On top, plump shrimp with a light grilled finish are placed, sprinkled with small green capers and chopped herbs, giving the dish a fresh, vibrant look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s beautiful about the Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Simple, fresh, and vibrant — these essentials practically do the work for you.

Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): The base for the dressing, adding richness and a fruity aroma that ties everything together.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (3 tablespoons plus 2 tablespoons more): Provides a zesty brightness that lifts the flavors and keeps the shrimp tender.
Fresh basil (about 1/3 cup total, chopped): Adds a sweet herbaceous note that’s simply irresistible.
Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, snipped): Offers a subtle earthiness to the dressing for depth.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning every component just right.
Raw large shrimp (1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined): The star protein, juicy and tender after a quick sauté.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking the shrimp gently without overpowering their natural sweetness.
Red pepper flakes (optional): To add a gentle kick of heat if you love a little spice.
Yellow and red cherry tomatoes (5 oz each, sliced in half): Sweet and juicy, they add vibrant pops of color and freshness.
Large cucumber (quartered): Crisp and cooling, balancing the salad perfectly.
Red onion (1/3 cup, sliced): Brings a mild sharpness and crunch.
Avocado (1, peeled and diced): Adds creamy texture and a mellow richness that makes every bite indulgent.
Capers (3 tablespoons): Deliver a tangy, briny punch that awakens the palate.
Feta cheese (4 oz, half cubed and half crumbled): The salty, crumbly finish that gives this salad its unmistakable Greek flair.

How to Make Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by blending your olive oil, the freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped fresh basil, and snipped thyme in a small jar. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then stir everything together. This simple dressing is the beating heart of the salad, infusing every ingredient with just the right brightness and herbal depth.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large, high-sided skillet on medium until it’s hot but not smoking. Pour in the olive oil, making sure it coats the pan evenly without blistering. Add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning with salt, and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes total—flipping once or twice—until they turn a perfect coral pink. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately toss the shrimp with freshly squeezed lemon juice, more salt if needed, optional red pepper flakes, and a handful of chopped fresh basil. This quick cooking method ensures juicy, flavorful shrimp every time.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber quarters, thinly sliced red onion, and creamy diced avocado. Add half of the feta cheese, mixing in both cubed and crumbled pieces for a wonderful texture contrast. Toss these vibrant ingredients gently with your homemade dressing so everything is evenly coated with herbaceous goodness.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Divide the dressed salad into individual bowls for serving. Carefully arrange the cooked shrimp on top, and sprinkle with the remaining crumbled feta and capers. At this point, the salad is a colorful masterpiece that’s as inviting to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful shrimp salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has around six pink-orange grilled shrimp with light charring scattered evenly on top. Beneath the shrimp, there are chopped layers of red and yellow cherry tomatoes, green cucumber slices, diced red onion, and chunks of white cheese. Small green capers and finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled across the dish, adding texture. Around the bowl on the white marbled surface, there are pine nuts and green leafy herbs. A gold fork and spoon rest beside the bowl with a few herb sprigs on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top adds a burst of extra color and subtle heat. For an elegant touch, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving brightens the whole presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad shines wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic pita for scooping. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a side of lemon roasted potatoes or a simple orzo pasta dressed with olive oil and fresh herbs.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or avocado halves for a pretty and practical presentation. Alternatively, layering it in a wide glass bowl as a vibrant salad parfait is great for casual gatherings where everyone can help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps best if you keep the shrimp and dressing separate from the veggies and avocado, as the avocado can brown and the vegetables soften over time. Enjoy leftovers within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

This salad is not recommended for freezing since the fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado will lose their texture after thawing. The shrimp can be frozen separately if you want to prepare ahead, but fresh assembly is always best.

Reheating

If you want to warm the shrimp, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat for just a minute or two. Avoid microwaving, which can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery. Serve the reheated shrimp on the salad fresh and cold for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the shrimp before cooking to avoid excess water and ensure a good sear.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs really make a difference here. If you don’t have basil, fresh parsley or oregano can add a lovely flavor, though the taste will be slightly different.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It can work for meal prep if you keep the components separate and assemble just before eating, especially because avocado and fresh vegetables don’t hold up well when pre-dressed.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Of course! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even some steamed green beans for extra crunch and variety.

How spicy is the salad with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the citrus and herbs. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder taste.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe enough if you’re looking for a dish that feels fresh, satisfying, and a little bit special without any fuss. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a sunny afternoon. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your rotation too!

Greek Shrimp Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need