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Healthy Garlic Shrimp And Quinoa Salad

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This healthy garlic shrimp and quinoa salad is a fresh, protein-packed dish featuring sautéed shrimp, fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, it’s quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings (main) or 4 servings (side)
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • ½ cup quinoa
  • 1 cup vegetable stock or water
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for shrimp)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cucumber, sliced
  • 7–8 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • ½ shallot, chopped
  • 2 handfuls baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • Fresh dill, for garnish
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, bring vegetable stock or water to a boil. Stir in quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool uncovered.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Add minced garlic halfway through cooking. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, shallot, spinach, parsley, and cooled quinoa.
  4. Add cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss to combine.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chopped dill.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with additional fresh dill and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Swap shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Use arugula, kale, or mixed greens instead of spinach if preferred.
  • Add veggies like bell pepper, avocado, or steamed asparagus for variety.
  • Substitute shallot with red onion or scallions.
  • Add a splash of red wine vinegar or chili flakes to the dressing for extra zing.
  • Prepare quinoa and shrimp ahead, and add fresh greens and dressing just before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/healthy-garlic-shrimp-and-quinoa-salad/