Shrimp Cobb Salad with Dijon Dressing

Introduction

If you’re looking for a fresh, protein-packed salad that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Shrimp Cobb Salad with Dijon Dressing is the perfect dish! It’s a seafood twist on the classic Cobb salad, featuring succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and tangy blue cheese—all tied together with a zesty Dijon vinaigrette. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a light yet satisfying dinner, this salad is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Takes just 15 minutes to put together
• High in Protein – Shrimp, eggs, and bacon make this a protein powerhouse
• Low-Carb & Gluten-Free – A nutritious meal without the carbs
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead for quick, healthy lunches

Taste & Texture

• Juicy, tender shrimp add a subtle sweetness
• Creamy avocado & eggs balance the crisp greens
• Crunchy bacon and cucumbers provide the perfect contrast
• The tangy Dijon dressing ties everything together

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 10 cups mixed greens
• 12 cooked extra-large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and halved lengthwise
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup Persian cucumber chunks
• 2 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese

Notes on Quality

For the best results, use wild-caught shrimp for their natural sweetness. Fresh vegetables will provide the crispest texture, but you can use frozen shrimp if needed—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before assembling the salad.

Possible Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or smoked salmon
• Dairy-Free Option – Omit blue cheese or use dairy-free feta
• Vinegar Variations – Swap white-wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dressing – Place olive oil, white-wine vinegar, chopped shallot, Dijon mustard, ground pepper, and salt into a lidded jar. Shake vigorously until combined.
2. Prep the Greens – Mound mixed greens on a large serving platter. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss to coat.

1. Assemble the Salad – Arrange shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, hard-boiled egg halves, diced avocado, crumbled bacon, and blue cheese on top of the greens.
2. Finish & Serve – Drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use freshly boiled eggs for the best texture. To make peeling easier, cool them in an ice bath for 10 minutes after boiling.
• Pat shrimp dry before adding to prevent excess moisture from diluting the dressing.
• Slice avocado last to keep it from browning. A squeeze of lemon juice can help maintain its fresh color.

Common Mistakes

• Overdressing the salad – Start with half the dressing and add more as needed
• Skipping seasoning on shrimp – Even pre-cooked shrimp benefits from a light sprinkle of salt and pepper before adding to the salad
• Using the wrong greens – Crisp greens like romaine or butter lettuce work best; softer greens like spinach may wilt quickly

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the dressing ahead of time – It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week
• Use pre-cooked shrimp – Saves time without sacrificing flavor
• Batch prep ingredients – Boil eggs, chop veggies, and cook bacon in advance for quick assembly

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This salad pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a bowl of Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese for an extra boost of nutrients.

Presentation Ideas

For a stunning presentation, arrange the ingredients in neat rows or sections before tossing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds a pop of color.

Beverage Pairings

• White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the tangy dressing
• Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option
• Iced Green Tea – A light and earthy pairing that balances the richness of the avocado and bacon

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store salad components separately to prevent sogginess
• Dressing lasts up to 7 days in the fridge
• Shrimp should be consumed within 2 days for best quality

Reheating Methods

• Shrimp can be eaten cold or lightly reheated in a pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes
• If storing assembled salad, keep avocado separate to prevent browning

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I make this salad vegetarian? Yes! Swap the shrimp for grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost.

What if I don’t like blue cheese? You can use feta, goat cheese, or even shredded cheddar as a milder alternative.

Troubleshooting

My dressing is too tangy. What can I do? Try adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.

The shrimp taste bland. How do I enhance their flavor? Toss them in a little olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Keto-Friendly – Omit the tomatoes to lower the carb count
• Dairy-Free – Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor
• Paleo – Swap blue cheese for avocado oil-based dressing

Flavor Twists

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing
• Mediterranean Flair – Swap blue cheese for feta and add kalamata olives
• Extra Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almonds or sunflower seeds on top

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Spring Version – Add fresh peas and asparagus
• Fall Twist – Include roasted butternut squash and dried cranberries
• Summer BBQ Style – Grill the shrimp and toss in a smoky paprika dressing

Conclusion

This Shrimp Cobb Salad with Dijon Dressing is fresh, filling, and packed with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a stunning dish for entertaining, this salad delivers on taste and nutrition. Try it out and let me know what you think in the comments. Don’t forget to check out Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese and Tomato Feta Salad for more fresh and delicious salad ideas.

For more recipes and inspiration, follow me on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/recipescookingwithcallie/

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