Ever found yourself pondering what salad goes with prawns? Let me tell you, prawns are versatile gems, capable of transforming a simple salad into a culinary masterpiece.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or just whipping up a quick lunch, pairing prawns with the right salad can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
We’ll dive deep into the world of prawn salads, exploring unique combinations and creative presentations that will wow your taste buds and impress your guests.
From the zesty zing of a lime-cilantro dressing to the sweet burst of mango paired with chili flakes, each recipe brings something exciting to the table.
By the end of this article, you’ll discover a variety of prawn salad recipes, each designed to highlight the delicate, succulent flavor of prawns. Get ready to transform your culinary repertoire with these delightful prawn salad pairings.
What Salad Goes with Prawns
Salad Type | Ingredients | Dressing | Texture | Flavor Profile |
---|---|---|---|---|
Classic Prawn Salad | Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado | Lemon vinaigrette | Crunchy, creamy | Fresh, tangy |
Mango Prawn Salad | Mango, red onion, bell peppers, jalapeños | Sweet chili sauce | Juicy, crisp | Sweet, spicy |
Mediterranean Prawn Salad | Cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, cucumber, feta | Lemon-olive oil | Crunchy, creamy | Savory, tangy |
Watermelon Prawn Salad | Watermelon, feta, mint | Balsamic glaze | Juicy, soft, fresh | Sweet, tangy |
Quinoa Prawn Salad | Quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mixed greens | Lemon-tahini | Nutty, crunchy, tender | Nutty, tangy |
Classic Prawn Salad Recipes
Mixed Greens with Prawns
Imagine a medley of mixed greens—crisp lettuce, tender spinach, peppery arugula. Now, toss in succulent prawns, lightly grilled to perfection. The prawns’ delicate sweetness dances with the greens, creating a refreshing, balanced bite.
Dressing It Right
A lemon vinaigrette, with its tangy brightness, cuts through the richness of the prawns. It’s simple: lemon juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. This zesty dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Prawn and Avocado Salad
Creamy avocado meets juicy prawns in a harmonious blend. The avocado’s buttery texture complements the prawns, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and light. Add some diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Herb Infusion
Cilantro and mint leaves bring a burst of freshness. These herbs elevate the dish, making each bite a flavorful journey. A touch of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet-tart contrast, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Spicy Prawn Salad
Kick up the heat with a spicy prawn salad. Toss the prawns in a mix of chili flakes, lime juice, and garlic before grilling. The heat from the chili and the tang from the lime make for an invigorating combination.
Cooling Elements
Balance the spice with cooling elements like cucumber and shredded carrot. These vegetables not only add texture but also help mellow the heat, creating a harmonious balance.
Prawn and Mango Salad
Sweet, juicy mango pairs perfectly with prawns. The tropical sweetness of the mango complements the prawns’ briny taste, making it a delightful summer salad. Add a handful of mixed greens for a fresh base.
Dressing with a Twist
A citrus vinaigrette made with lime and orange juice brings a vibrant zest. This dressing ties the salad together, enhancing the fruity and savory notes in every bite.
Mediterranean Prawn Salad
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with a salad featuring prawns, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. The briny olives and creamy feta add depth and richness to the dish.
Olive Oil Magic
Drizzle some high-quality olive oil and a squeeze of lemon over the salad. This simple dressing lets the ingredients shine, highlighting their natural flavors without overwhelming them.
Asian Prawn Salad
Explore the bold flavors of an Asian prawn salad. Combine prawns with shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced bell peppers. The vibrant colors are as appealing to the eye as the flavors are to the palate.
Sesame and Soy Harmony
A dressing of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of ginger brings an umami richness. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a nutty finish that adds both flavor and crunch.
Prawn and Quinoa Salad
For a protein-packed option, try a prawn and quinoa salad. Quinoa’s nutty texture pairs beautifully with the tender prawns. Add some cherry tomatoes and chopped cucumber for freshness.
Nutritional Boost
This salad is not just delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The quinoa provides dietary fiber, making it a hearty and healthy choice that keeps you full and satisfied.
Prawn Caesar Salad
A twist on the classic Caesar, this version uses prawns instead of chicken. The prawns are grilled and tossed with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan.
Classic Caesar Dressing
The key is in the dressing: a creamy Caesar made with anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard. This dressing coats the prawns and lettuce beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful salad.
Fresh Prawn Salads
When considering what salad goes with prawns, the possibilities are endless. Each combination brings out different aspects of the prawns’ flavor, making them a versatile ingredient in any salad.
Fusion Prawn Salads
Prawn and Quinoa Salad with Avocado
Quinoa’s nutty texture paired with the tender sweetness of prawns is a match made in culinary heaven. Toss in some creamy avocado chunks, a handful of cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. The bright acidity of the lime cuts through the richness, making each bite a refreshing delight.
Dressing Up the Quinoa
A dressing made of olive oil, lime juice, and a hint of cumin adds a subtle smoky note, elevating the flavors without overpowering the natural goodness of the ingredients. The dietary fiber from quinoa keeps you full and satisfied, while the prawns provide a protein punch.
Spicy Thai Prawn Salad
Bold and vibrant, this salad brings the heat. Juicy prawns tossed with shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, all bathed in a spicy Thai dressing. The key here is balance: the heat from the chili, the sweetness from a bit of honey, and the tanginess from lime juice.
Nutty Crunch
Top it off with crushed peanuts and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The cilantro adds a burst of freshness, while the peanuts bring that satisfying crunch. It’s a dance of flavors and textures that makes your taste buds tingle with joy.
Mediterranean Prawn and Chickpea Salad
Imagine the Mediterranean coast: prawns mingling with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and Kalamata olives. The briny olives and creamy feta cheese create a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
Zesty Lemon Dressing
A simple dressing of lemon juice and olive oil ties everything together. The lemon’s acidity brightens the salad, while the olive oil adds a luscious mouthfeel. It’s light, refreshing, and utterly satisfying.
Mango and Prawn Salad
Sweet, succulent mango pairs with the delicate prawns in a tropical twist. Add some red onion slices for a bit of sharpness, and mixed greens for a fresh base. The sweetness of the mango and the prawns’ brininess create a harmonious balance.
Citrus Harmony
Drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette made of orange juice, lime juice, and a touch of honey. The citrus vinaigrette not only enhances the fruity notes but also brings a zingy freshness that makes this salad a perfect summer dish.
Prawn and Noodle Salad
A fusion of textures and flavors, this salad combines prawns with rice noodles, julienned carrots, and bell peppers. Tossed in a light soy and sesame dressing, it’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Sesame Soy Symphony
The dressing is key: soy sauce provides umami richness, while sesame oil adds a nutty depth. A hint of ginger brings a warm spice that complements the prawns perfectly. Sprinkle some sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Grilled Prawn and Watermelon Salad
Unexpected yet delightful, grilled prawns paired with juicy watermelon is a combination that surprises and delights. The sweet watermelon contrasts beautifully with the savory prawns.
Minty Freshness
A handful of fresh mint leaves takes this salad to another level. The mint’s cool, refreshing taste complements the watermelon, creating a dish that’s perfect for a hot day. A light drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish that ties everything together.
When considering what salad goes with prawns, these fusion recipes offer a plethora of flavors and textures. Each combination brings out different aspects of the prawns’ flavor, making them versatile and exciting in any culinary adventure.
Grilled and Barbecued Prawn Salads
Grilled Prawn and Avocado Salad
Grilling prawns—there’s something about that smoky flavor that takes them to the next level. Imagine this: tender prawns with a slight char, paired with creamy avocado. Add some mixed greens for that fresh crunch. It’s a match made in heaven.
Zesty Lime Dressing
Now, the dressing. A simple lime vinaigrette—lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. The acidity of the lime and the sweetness of the honey create a perfect balance, enhancing the prawns’ natural flavors.
Barbecued Prawn and Mango Salad
Barbecue those prawns, let them get those beautiful grill marks. Pair them with juicy mango slices. The sweetness of the mango against the smoky prawns—it’s like a tropical vacation on your plate.
Mint and Cilantro Touch
Add fresh mint and cilantro. These herbs bring a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the mango and the smokiness of the prawns. Drizzle with a light balsamic reduction for a tangy twist.
Spicy Grilled Prawn Salad
Spice things up with a spicy prawn salad. Marinate the prawns in a blend of chili flakes, garlic, and lime juice before grilling. The result? Prawns with a fiery kick, balanced by the citrusy zing of lime.
Cooling Cucumber
Balance the heat with cooling cucumber slices. They add a refreshing crunch and help mellow the spice, creating a harmonious flavor profile. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice nutty finish.
Grilled Prawn and Quinoa Salad
Grill those prawns and toss them with quinoa. The nutty quinoa and the smoky prawns create a satisfying texture contrast. Add some cherry tomatoes and diced cucumber for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Light Herb Dressing
A light herb dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped basil ties everything together. It’s light, refreshing, and lets the natural flavors shine through.
Mediterranean Barbecued Prawn Salad
Think Mediterranean vibes—barbecued prawns with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. The briny olives and the creamy feta cheese add depth and richness to the salad.
Simple Olive Oil Dressing
A drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice is all you need. The simplicity of this dressing lets the ingredients speak for themselves, highlighting the prawns’ smoky goodness.
Grilled Prawn and Watermelon Salad
Grill those prawns and pair them with sweet, juicy watermelon. It might sound unusual, but the combination of smoky prawns and sweet watermelon is surprisingly delightful.
Fresh Mint Finish
Add some fresh mint leaves for a cooling contrast. The mint’s bright, fresh flavor complements the watermelon and prawns, making each bite refreshing and flavorful.
When it comes to what salad goes with prawns, these grilled and barbecued versions bring a smoky depth that’s hard to resist. The char from the grill adds a whole new dimension to the prawns, making them the star of any salad.
Prawn Salads with Unique Ingredients
Prawn and Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate
Quinoa, that nutty, protein-packed supergrain, pairs beautifully with prawns. Now, toss in some pomegranate seeds. Those little ruby jewels burst with sweetness and a touch of tartness, making each bite an explosion of flavor.
Honey-Lemon Dressing
The dressing? Honey and lemon juice. Simple, yet perfect. The honey brings out the sweetness in the pomegranate, while the lemon adds a zesty punch that brightens the entire salad.
Prawn and Watermelon Radish Salad
Watermelon radish, with its vibrant pink center and mild peppery taste, adds a visual and flavorful twist to a prawn salad. Slice it thin and toss it with the prawns for a crunchy, colorful delight.
Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette
Drizzle with a sesame-ginger vinaigrette. The nutty sesame oil and spicy ginger complement the radish and prawns, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It’s an unexpected combination that works wonderfully.
Prawn and Edamame Salad
Edamame, those little green soybeans, bring a delightful crunch and a dose of protein to the salad. Pair them with prawns for a hearty and satisfying dish.
Miso Dressing
A miso dressing ties it all together. Miso paste, rice vinegar, a touch of honey, and sesame oil. This dressing has that umami depth that makes the edamame and prawns sing.
Prawn and Fig Salad
Figs, with their natural sweetness and unique texture, are a fantastic addition to a prawn salad. They bring a rich, fruity note that pairs surprisingly well with the prawns.
Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze. The sweet, tangy glaze enhances the figs and prawns, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Add some mixed greens for freshness and a handful of nuts for crunch.
Prawn and Avocado with Grapefruit
Avocado’s creamy texture and the juicy tang of grapefruit make a dynamic duo in a prawn salad. The grapefruit adds a refreshing burst of citrus that lifts the entire dish.
Citrus Vinaigrette
A simple citrus vinaigrette—orange juice, lime juice, and a bit of olive oil—ties everything together. This light, zesty dressing enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
Prawn and Noodle Salad with Mango
Mango, with its sweet and slightly tangy flavor, adds a tropical twist to a prawn and noodle salad. Use rice noodles for a light, gluten-free base.
Sweet Chili Sauce
A dressing made of sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a dash of fish sauce brings a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dressing that complements the mango and prawns perfectly.
Prawn and Chickpea Salad with Dates
Chickpeas add a hearty, nutty flavor, while dates bring a rich sweetness to this unique prawn salad. The combination of these ingredients creates a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Tahini-Lemon Dressing
A tahini-lemon dressing adds a creamy, nutty depth. The tahini’s richness and the lemon’s acidity make this salad irresistible, enhancing the prawns and chickpeas beautifully.
Prawn and Kale Salad with Blueberries
Kale’s sturdy leaves and slight bitterness contrast beautifully with the sweet burst of blueberries. This combination with prawns creates a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Blueberry Vinaigrette
Blend some blueberries with vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey for a fruity vinaigrette. This dressing adds a sweet and tangy note, complementing the kale and prawns perfectly.
In the world of culinary creativity, thinking about what salad goes with prawns opens up endless possibilities. Unique ingredients can transform a simple prawn salad into a gourmet experience.
Prawn Salads with Fruit Combinations
Prawn and Mango Salad
Picture this: juicy prawns, grilled to perfection, nestled alongside succulent mango slices. The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the prawns’ savory notes. Add a handful of mixed greens for a fresh, vibrant base.
Chili-Lime Dressing
The magic happens with the dressing. A simple blend of lime juice, a pinch of chili flakes, and honey. The lime’s acidity and the chili’s heat create a tantalizing contrast with the mango’s sweetness, making every bite an adventure.
Prawn and Avocado with Grapefruit
Creamy avocado and tart grapefruit—this duo is a game-changer. The avocado’s richness balances the grapefruit’s zingy tang, creating a symphony of flavors that dance around the prawns.
Citrus Vinaigrette
A citrus vinaigrette is the perfect match. Orange juice, a splash of lemon, and a touch of olive oil. This dressing enhances the grapefruit’s sharpness and avocado’s creaminess, tying the entire salad together.
Prawn and Watermelon Salad
Watermelon in a salad? Absolutely. Its juicy sweetness complements the prawns wonderfully. Add some thinly sliced red onion and mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
Balsamic Reduction
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction. The balsamic’s sweet and tangy notes elevate the watermelon and prawns, creating a dish that’s both surprising and delightful. The mint adds a fresh pop that brings everything into harmony.
Prawn and Pineapple Salad
Grilled prawns paired with sweet, tangy pineapple chunks. The pineapple’s tropical sweetness enhances the prawns’ flavor, creating a vibrant, summery dish.
Ginger-Soy Dressing
A ginger-soy dressing brings an Asian flair. Soy sauce, grated ginger, a dash of honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. This dressing’s umami depth and ginger’s warmth create a perfect balance with the pineapple and prawns.
Prawn and Apple Salad
Crisp apple slices add a refreshing crunch to the prawns. Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith to contrast the prawns’ sweetness. Toss in some mixed greens and a sprinkle of walnuts for added texture.
Apple Cider Vinaigrette
An apple cider vinaigrette ties it all together. Apple cider vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil. This dressing’s tangy and sweet notes enhance the apples and prawns, making the salad irresistibly good.
Prawn and Blueberry Salad
Blueberries aren’t just for desserts. Their sweet, slightly tart flavor pairs beautifully with prawns. Add some baby spinach leaves for a nutritious base.
Blueberry Vinaigrette
Create a blueberry vinaigrette by blending fresh blueberries with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey. This fruity dressing complements the prawns and spinach, making each bite burst with flavor.
Prawn and Pear Salad
Sliced pears add a delicate sweetness to prawns. Choose a ripe, juicy variety for the best flavor. Add some arugula for a peppery bite and some crumbled blue cheese for richness.
Walnut Dressing
A walnut dressing adds a nutty, earthy note. Blend walnuts with olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, and a touch of honey. This dressing’s creamy texture and rich flavor enhance the pears and prawns, creating a sophisticated, delicious salad.
When pondering what salad goes with prawns, these fruit combinations offer a refreshing and delightful twist, each bringing out unique aspects of the prawns’ flavor and texture.
Warm and Hearty Prawn Salads
Prawn and Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Imagine prawns, tender and juicy, nestled among nutty quinoa and roasted vegetables. The veggies—sweet bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes—are caramelized to perfection, adding a depth of flavor that’s both rich and comforting.
Garlic-Lemon Dressing
Drizzle over a garlic-lemon dressing. Freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, a hint of honey, and a splash of olive oil. This dressing infuses the salad with a bright, zesty note that complements the warmth of the roasted vegetables and prawns.
Prawn and Sweet Potato Salad
Sweet potatoes bring a hearty, slightly sweet component to this salad. Roasted until tender, they pair wonderfully with prawns. Toss in some mixed greens and a handful of toasted pecans for crunch.
Maple-Dijon Dressing
A maple-Dijon dressing adds a sweet and tangy twist. Mix Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. This dressing enhances the sweetness of the potatoes and prawns, tying everything together beautifully.
Warm Prawn and Spinach Salad
Sauté prawns until they’re golden and succulent, then toss them with wilted spinach. The warmth of the prawns gently wilts the spinach, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
Warm Bacon Vinaigrette
A warm bacon vinaigrette takes this salad to the next level. Crisp bacon, rendered fat, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a touch of honey. The bacon adds a smoky, savory element that pairs perfectly with the prawns and spinach.
Prawn and Lentil Salad
Lentils, with their earthy flavor and hearty texture, are a fantastic base for a warm salad. Combine them with sautéed prawns and caramelized onions for a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Mustard-Herb Dressing
A mustard-herb dressing brings it all together. Whole grain mustard, fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, lemon juice, and olive oil. This dressing adds a tangy, herby note that complements the lentils and prawns perfectly.
Prawn and Butternut Squash Salad
Butternut squash, roasted until caramelized, adds a sweet, nutty flavor to the prawns. Toss with some arugula for a peppery bite and a handful of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
Sage-Brown Butter Dressing
A sage-brown butter dressing is the perfect finishing touch. Brown butter, fresh sage leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice. The nutty, aromatic dressing enhances the squash and prawns, creating a warm, comforting salad.
Prawn and Chickpea Salad
Warm chickpeas, sautéed with garlic and spices, provide a hearty base for this salad. Add prawns, fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, and some diced tomatoes for freshness.
Spicy Yogurt Dressing
A spicy yogurt dressing adds a cooling contrast. Greek yogurt, a dash of hot sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This creamy, tangy dressing complements the warm chickpeas and prawns, making each bite a flavorful delight.
When pondering what salad goes with prawns, warm and hearty options offer comfort and richness. These salads combine robust flavors and textures, making them perfect for a satisfying meal.