Introduction
Some salads feel more like a side dish… Shrimp Louie feels like a complete meal.
Often called the “King of Salads,” this classic seafood salad combines juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and hard-boiled eggs in a way that’s simple but incredibly satisfying. It has that old-school restaurant feel, but honestly, it tastes even better homemade.
What makes this version stand out is the balance of textures—cool lettuce, tender shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumbers, and that tangy Louie dressing pulling everything together.
It’s refreshing, protein-packed, and surprisingly easy to prepare once everything is chopped and layered.
Ingredients
For the salad:
• 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved or sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Louie dressing:
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of salt & pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
2️⃣ Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, garlic, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3️⃣ Assemble the salad base
Arrange chopped romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl or platter.
4️⃣ Add the toppings
Layer shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, eggs, avocado, and red onion over the lettuce.
5️⃣ Finish with dressing
Drizzle the Louie dressing over the salad right before serving.
6️⃣ Serve immediately
Serve chilled while everything is fresh and crisp.
Tips & Variations
• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they become rubbery fast
• Chill the dressing before serving for better flavor
• Add crispy bacon for extra richness
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter dressing
• Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole salad
• Great served with toasted sourdough or crackers
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 360 kcal
• Protein: 26 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 4 g
Approximate Cost
• Total Cost: ~$10–$13
• Cost per serving: Moderate
Conclusion
Shrimp Louie salad is one of those classic recipes that still holds up for a reason.
It’s fresh, creamy, packed with texture, and filling enough to stand on its own as a full meal. Between the juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing, every bite feels balanced and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a salad that actually feels substantial, this one definitely delivers.
