If you’re craving a salad that’s bright, bold, and full of flavor, look no further than this Classic Shrimp Louie Salad. It’s deeply rooted in West Coast tradition, combining juicy shrimp, crisp greens, creamy avocado, and a tangy, signature Louie dressing for a taste of pure California sunshine. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a showstopping starter, or the main event at your summer gathering, Classic Shrimp Louie Salad captures fresh, coastal goodness in every bite.

Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this salad is refreshingly simple, yet each item is essential in building delicious layers of texture and flavor. Together, these elements create a colorful, satisfying dish that’s both nourishing and eye-catching.

Cooked shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Use plump, sweet shrimp for the freshest, seafood-forward flavor.
Mixed salad greens (6 cups): Combine iceberg, romaine, and butter lettuce for the ultimate crunchy, tender bed—each brings its own texture and color.
Avocado (1, sliced): Adds creamy, mellow richness that plays perfectly off the tangy dressing and crisp vegetables.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): These provide a juicy burst and welcome pop of color in every forkful.
Cucumber (1/2 cup, sliced): Cool, crisp, and refreshing—cucumbers help the whole salad feel lighter and brighter.
Hard-boiled eggs (2, quartered): Classic, hearty, and a beautiful addition—eggs add protein and visual appeal.
Red onion (1/4 cup, sliced): A little sharpness goes a long way, giving bite and balancing the creaminess.
Black olives (1/4 cup, pitted and halved): Salty and savory, olives round out the salad with a briny touch.
For the Louie Dressing:
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base that holds it all together.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and color.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and lifts all the flavors.
Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Brings a savory, umami kick.
Prepared horseradish (1 teaspoon): For that subtle bite that makes Louie dressing unmistakable.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a warm smokiness and gorgeous color.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go!

How to Make Classic Shrimp Louie Salad

Step 1: Mix the Louie Dressing

Start by preparing the backbone of your Classic Shrimp Louie Salad: the zesty Louie dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, prepared horseradish, and paprika. Season with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to get just the right balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. Once smooth, pop it in the fridge to let the flavors meld while you assemble the salad.

Step 2: Arrange the Greens and Veggies

Scatter the mixed salad greens across a generous platter or divide evenly on individual plates. Arrange the sliced avocado, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, hard-boiled egg quarters, red onion, and black olives on top. Don’t worry about making it too perfect—the beauty of Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is in its abundant, inviting presentation!

Step 3: Add the Shrimp

Mound the chilled, cooked shrimp right on top of the vegetables. It’s best to use large shrimp for visual impact, but any size works well. If you like, tuck a few shrimp along the sides for added drama and that wow-factor when you bring the salad to the table.

Step 4: Finish with Dressing

Right before serving, drizzle the Louie dressing generously over the top of the salad, or bring the bowl to the table so everyone can help themselves. The dressing ties everything together, marrying the creamy, tangy, and spicy notes that make this dish sing. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle on fresh dill or chopped chives for even more depth of flavor!

How to Serve Classic Shrimp Louie Salad

Garnishes

A finishing flourish always makes Classic Shrimp Louie Salad special. Top with a sprinkle of fresh dill, chopped chives, or a lemon wedge for added color and a fresh, herbal punch. A light dusting of paprika over the eggs gives a restaurant-worthy appearance and a subtle smokiness that’s oh-so-inviting.

Side Dishes

This salad shines on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider pairing it with crusty sourdough bread, garlic toast, or even a cup of creamy soup. These simple sides help soak up every last bit of the delicious Louie dressing and guarantee a truly satisfying lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is all about presentation—pile it high in a chilled glass bowl for retro flair, serve it on individual plates for a dinner party, or even scoop it into avocado halves for a fun, portable twist. You can also serve it deconstructed, letting guests build their own perfect plate, which always makes for lively conversation around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Classic Shrimp Louie Salad, store the components separately for maximum freshness. Keep the salad greens and veggies in one airtight container and the shrimp and eggs in another. Always store the dressing on the side, so the greens stay crisp until you’re ready to eat again.

Freezing

While the salad greens and veggies aren’t freezer-friendly, you can freeze cooked shrimp if you happen to have extra. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, but remember that shrimp will have the best texture and flavor if eaten fresh in this salad.

Reheating

Since Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is meant to be served chilled, there’s no need to reheat. Simply assemble your ingredients straight from the fridge, give the dressing a quick stir if it’s separated, and enjoy a delightfully cool, refreshing dish every single time.

FAQs

Can I use another type Salad

Absolutely! Crab, lobster, or even chunks of cooked fish can all make delicious substitutes in Classic Shrimp Louie Salad. Pick your favorite, or use whatever is freshest at the seafood counter for a fun variation.

What’s the origin of Classic Shrimp Louie Salad?

While its exact beginnings are a little mysterious, Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is believed to have emerged on the West Coast, especially California, in the early 20th century. Its timeless combination of seafood, crisp greens, and that signature dressing has kept it loved for generations.

Can I make the Louie dressing lighter?

You sure can! For a lighter Louie dressing, simply swap out half of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. It stays creamy and tangy, but with less fat and a slight protein boost—perfect if you’re after a healthier twist.

Is Classic Shrimp Louie Salad gluten-free?

Yes, as written this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any accompaniments, like bread or crackers, fit your dietary needs.

How far ahead can I assemble the salad?

You can prep the dressing, cook the shrimp, and chop your veggies up to one day in advance. Wait to assemble the salad and add the dressing until just before serving so everything stays as vibrant and fresh as possible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s breezy, beautiful, and packed with flavor, give Classic Shrimp Louie Salad a try. Every forkful is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple pleasures—it might just become your new favorite salad to share with family and friends!

Classic Shrimp Louie Salad Recipe

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4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with crisp vegetables and a creamy Louie dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is easy to assemble and bursting with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Salad Ingredients:

1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 cups mixed salad greens (such as iceberg, romaine, and butter lettuce)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1/4 cup black olives, pitted and halved

For the Louie Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Louie Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Assemble the Salad: On a large platter or individual plates, arrange the salad greens. Top with shrimp, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, hard-boiled eggs, red onion, and olives.
Drizzle with Dressing: Drizzle the Louie dressing over the salad or serve on the side.