After a long day filled with the hustle and bustle, nothing feels more rewarding than whipping up a quick, satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor. That’s exactly what my Bang Bang Shrimp Salad delivers—a vibrant, refreshing dish that transforms my dinner routine while keeping it light and healthy. When I first tried this recipe, I was intrigued by the idea of combining tender shrimp with crunchy broccoli slaw, all smothered in a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce.
As I tossed the ingredients together, the colors were so inviting, it felt like an edible work of art. This dish strikes the perfect balance between delicious and nutritious, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights when fast food just won’t cut it. Whether you’re looking to impress family or simply treat yourself, this salad is all about the quick prep and bold flavors that make every bite a delight. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s just 15 minutes away!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp Salad a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of creamy bang bang sauce and zesty lime elevates the tasty shrimp and crunchy broccoli slaw.
Healthy: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is nourishing without sacrificing flavor—guilt-free indulgence!
Versatile Option: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, and tailor the heat to your taste by adjusting the sriracha.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family meal or impressing guests, this vibrant salad is sure to be a hit at any table.
Embrace quick meals with delicious results!
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Ingredients
For the Slaw
• Broccoli slaw – a crunchy base that adds a fresh, fiber-packed twist.
For the Shrimp
• Raw shrimp – wild-caught, fresh or frozen will work, but fresh offers the best flavor.
• Olive oil – helps to cook the shrimp to perfection and enhances the overall taste.
• Garlic – minced for a rich aroma and depth of flavor in the dish.
• Lime – squeeze in for a zesty kick that brightens the salad.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, balancing all the delightful flavors.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Greek yogurt – provides a creamy texture while keeping it lighter than mayonnaise.
• Sriracha – add as much or as little as you like for the perfect kick in your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad!
• Maple syrup – a hint of sweetness that complements the sauce’s heat beautifully.
For Garnish
• Fresh cilantro – chopped for a refreshing herbaceous note that finishes the salad off beautifully.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
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Prepare the Slaw: Add the package of broccoli slaw to a large bowl and set it aside. This crunchy base brings freshness and fiber to your salad.
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Season the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, then place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, squeeze half a lime, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
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Heat the Skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot for optimal cooking. This will help the shrimp get that perfect sear.
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth; this creamy sauce adds a flavor explosion to your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad!
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Cook the Shrimp: Once the skillet is heated, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for a few minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through. Turn off the heat and add about a tablespoon of the bang bang sauce to coat the shrimp.
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Season the Slaw: In the bowl of broccoli slaw, add salt, pepper, and the juice of the remaining half lime. Stir in chopped cilantro, then mix in the majority of the bang bang sauce—saving a couple of tablespoons for drizzling later.
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Combine and Serve: Toss in the cooked shrimp, mix everything together until well combined. Plate your colorful salad and get ready to enjoy a delightful, quick meal!
Optional: Garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp separate from the slaw to maintain texture.
Freezer: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 1 month. Just ensure they are in an airtight freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Avoid reheating slaw; enjoy fresh!
Preparation Tip: If you plan on making a larger batch, consider keeping the bang bang sauce separate and adding it just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by marinating them in olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, then refrigerate. The bang bang sauce can also be made ahead—just combine Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the shrimp as directed and combine them with the fresh broccoli slaw, seasoned with salt, pepper, and cilantro. Add the stored sauce just before plating for that vibrant, fresh taste that makes your salad just as delicious as when first made!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Salad?
Crafting the perfect meal is all about finding delightful sides that complement your main dish, enhancing every bite.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch and buttery warmth of garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the crisp slaw, making it a comforting choice.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf adds a wholesome, chewy element that balances the salad’s crunchiness perfectly.
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Chilled White Wine: A refreshing chilled white, like Sauvignon Blanc, elevates the dining experience, pairing beautifully with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a rich texture and mild flavor that offsets the spicy bang bang sauce, creating a harmonious bite. Enjoy it layered on top or on the side!
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Mango Salsa: The bright sweetness of mango salsa provides a fruity contrast to the savory shrimp, turning your meal into a tropical getaway.
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Cucumber Water: Cool and refreshing, cucumber-infused water helps cleanse the palate and keeps you hydrated, complementing the salad’s vibrant flavors.
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Fruit Salad: A light and fruity blend of melon, berries, and citrus can refresh your palate and add a sweet note to your meal. It’s a bright finish that pairs wonderfully!
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and creamy side enhances the salad’s tropical essence while providing a delightful texture.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse creates a satisfying end to the meal, balancing the salad’s fresh flavors with decadence.
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own through these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bang bang sauce for an extra layer of heat.
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Creamy Alternative: Swap Greek yogurt for avocado or a dairy-free yogurt for a creamy, plant-based twist that’s equally luxurious.
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Crispy Texture: Top with crunchy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips for an added textural contrast that elevates each bite.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with grilled tempeh or chickpeas for a hearty veggie-packed alternative that still satisfies.
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Fresh Fruit: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a sweet and tangy surprise that brightens flavors.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts to add a delightful crunch and nutty depth.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil in place of cilantro to find your favorite flavor profile.
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Zesty Upgrade: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the slaw for a spicy zing that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
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Shrimp Preparation: Always peel and devein your shrimp. This ensures a clean taste and avoids any unwanted textures in your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.
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Cooking Temperature: Preheat your skillet properly; a hot skillet will give your shrimp a beautiful sear, enhancing their flavor and texture.
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Sauce Balance: Adjust the sriracha according to your spice preference, but be careful not to add too much at once. Taste as you go for the perfect blend!
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli slaw for the best crunch and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re completely thawed before cooking.
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Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the cilantro! It brightens the dish and adds a refreshing note that beautifully complements the rich sauce.
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for my Bang Bang Shrimp Salad?
Absolutely! When picking shrimp, opt for wild-caught if available, as it usually offers superior flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent without any strong odors. If using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking and avoid any with dark spots or a mushy texture.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Salad?
Great question! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp separate from the slaw to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy. Simply combine them just before enjoying your next meal!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked shrimp! Place them in an airtight freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating; avoid freezing the slaw, as it won’t hold up well.
What should I do if my shrimp are rubbery?
Very! If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it’s often a sign they were overcooked. Ensure you cook them just until they turn opaque and slightly firm, which usually takes only a few minutes on each side. Always keep your cooking temperature at medium to achieve a lovely sear without overdoing it.
Can I adjust this recipe for allergies or dietary preferences?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative if lactose intolerant. If you have shellfish allergies, consider replacing the shrimp with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a plant-based option that still pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce.
Is Bang Bang Shrimp Salad suitable for pets?
Not really! While shrimp is generally safe in small amounts for some pets, the spices and ingredients in the bang bang sauce, such as sriracha and garlic, can be harmful to them. It’s best to keep this salad strictly for human enjoyment!
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad: A Flavor Explosion in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Slaw: Add the package of broccoli slaw to a large bowl and set it aside.
- Season the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, then place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, squeeze half a lime, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot for optimal cooking.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the skillet is heated, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for a few minutes on each side until they are opaque.
- Season the Slaw: In the bowl of broccoli slaw, add salt, pepper, and the juice of the remaining half lime. Stir in chopped cilantro and mix in the majority of the bang bang sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Toss in the cooked shrimp, mix everything together until well combined. Plate your colorful salad.