Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad: Tropical Summer Recipe

This 15 minute mango pineapple shrimp salad recipe brings tropical flavors to your table, ideal for summer lunches or healthy dinners.  Imagine lounging under the sun with a plate of colorful, fresh shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and juicy tropical fruits. That’s what this salad offers: a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite that can instantly brighten your day.

With the sweetness of mango and pineapple, combined with tender shrimp, every mouthful feels like a mini vacation. Plus, this salad is incredibly simple to whip up, taking just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch, healthy snack, or fancy dinner without any fuss. Trust me, this addition to your recipe arsenal will quickly become a favorite! If you’re craving more refreshing meals like this, don’t miss our easy summer salad that’s just as vibrant and satisfying.

Why This Tropical Shrimp Salad Works

Creating the perfect Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad combines fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and a delightful crunch. The balance between sweet tropical fruits and succulent shrimp creates a dish that’s not only refreshing but also satisfying. The citrusy lime and creamy avocado further enhance the flavors, making it a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad

This Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad is the epitome of summer on a plate! It’s quick, taking only 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for a light lunch, a healthy snack, or an effortless dinner. The medley of textures and tastes will transport you to a tropical paradise, and it’s loaded with nutrients—perfect for the health-conscious foodie!

Ingredients

• 1 pound U20 fresh shrimp (or your favorite sized shrimp, cleaned, shelled, and deveined; thawed frozen shrimp may be used)
• 1 ½ cups small-diced fresh mango (thawed frozen mango may be substituted)
• 1 ½ cups small-diced fresh pineapple (thawed frozen pineapple may be substituted)
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (or to taste)
• 1 serrano chile (or jalapeño pepper), seeded and finely diced
• 1 ripe Hass avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup fresh cilantro, finely minced (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (or to taste; adjust to 2 teaspoons for extra flavor)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

Cooking the Shrimp Perfectly

Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by bringing salted water to a boil in a small kettle. This will help flavor the shrimp as they cook.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 90 seconds to 3 minutes, depending on their size. Carefully monitor the shrimp to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery. A cooking time of about 2 minutes typically works best for U20 shrimp.

Ice Bath

Immediately remove the shrimp and submerge them in an ice bath. This quick step stops the cooking process and keeps the shrimp tender.

Mixing the Salad

Chop the Ingredients

While the shrimp cool, chop the remaining ingredients—mango, pineapple, red onion, peppers, avocado, and cilantro. Ensure your pieces are small for a well-blended salad.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the chopped ingredients, cooled shrimp, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently mix them together, making sure everything is coated with the lime juice.

Adjust Seasoning

Stir everything well and taste to balance the seasoning. Feel free to tweak it to your liking, adding more lime juice or salt as you desire.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the vibrant Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad into bowls and serve with crunchy tortilla chips or seasoned tortilla chips. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making your meal even more delightful.

Tips for Success

• Experiment with herbs: Adding mint or basil can create a refreshing twist.
• For added crunch, consider including chopped bell peppers or celery.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder salad, swap serrano for jalapeño.

Variations

• Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• Try other tropical fruits like papaya or kiwi for a unique flavor combination.
• For a spicy kick, drizzle sriracha or your favorite hot sauce over the top before serving.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some texture and vibrant color, but the flavors will continue to meld beautifully, making it tasty even the next day.

Pairing Ideas

This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with:
– A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the tropical flavors.
– A light beer or a tropical cocktail to enhance the meal’s festive vibe.
– A side of garlic bread or a garden salad for a full meal experience, rounding out the deliciousness.

Looking for a light dessert to pair with this salad? Try our No-Bake Summer Berry Lasagna—a perfect sweet treat to complete your summer meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Thawed frozen shrimp work well. Just ensure they are cleaned and deveined for best results.

2. How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the individual ingredients ahead and mix them just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and colorful.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone.

4. Can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to add your favorites, such as diced cucumbers or bell peppers. These additions will provide even more crunch and flavor.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld but the salad may lose some texture.

With its tropical flavors and vibrant colors, the Mango Pineapple Shrimp Salad brings summertime joy to any dining table. Whether you’re preparing for a casual gathering or simply enjoying a personal treat, this dish will impress with its balance of sweetness, zing, and satisfaction. Give it a try, and you’ll be instantly transported to a beachside paradise!

Love summer flavors? Explore all our summer recipes to keep the sunshine going at your table!

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