Name: Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Salad with Crunchy Broccoli Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Broccoli Slaw (Can be swapped with regular cabbage if needed); 1 pound Raw Shrimp (Feel free to use wild caught, fresh, or frozen shrimp); 1 cup Greek Yogurt (High-quality yogurt works best for texture); 3 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust the amount based on your heat preference); 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (Balances the spice with sweetness); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Used to sauté the shrimp); 1 juice of Lime (Adds zesty acidity); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Optional, can be substituted with parsley)

As I tossed the fresh broccoli slaw into the bowl, a burst of excitement filled my kitchen—this is no ordinary salad. The Healthy Bang Bang Shrimp Salad is a vibrant mix of succulent shrimp coated in a fiery bang bang sauce paired with crunchy broccoli slaw, turning an appetizer favorite into a nutritious meal that you can whip up in just 15 minutes. Not only is this dish refreshingly light and packed with protein, but it also brings a satisfying crunch that makes it perfect for lunch or dinner. With every bite, you’ll get the best of both worlds: the indulgent flavors of its fried counterpart without the guilt. Curious about how to make this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a game changer?

Flavor Explosion: Every bite of this Bang Bang Shrimp Salad delivers zesty and spicy goodness, thanks to the creamy bang bang sauce.

Light & Healthy: With broccoli slaw as a crunchy base, this recipe keeps everything low-calorie yet fulfilling.

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family or guests with a dish that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Versatile Protein Options: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a custom twist! Or try serving it in warm tortillas for a fun taco night.

Whether paired with a side like Strawberry Spinach Salad or simply enjoyed on its own, you won’t want to miss out on this vibrant dish!

Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish!

For the Salad

Broccoli Slaw – Provides a crunchy texture and is a great source of fiber; can be swapped with regular cabbage if needed.
Raw Shrimp – A key protein that keeps this dish satisfying; feel free to use wild caught, fresh, or frozen shrimp.

For the Sauce

Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce, adding tanginess; high-quality yogurt works best for texture.
Sriracha – Delivers that signature spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference to make the Bang Bang Shrimp Salad just right for you.
Maple Syrup – Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness to enhance flavors.

For Cooking

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the shrimp, bringing in healthy fats to the dish.
Lime – Adds a zesty acidity to brighten the flavors; don’t forget the juice!
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; remember to adjust to your taste preferences.
Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; mince for quick incorporation into the sauce.
Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of herbaceous freshness; can be omitted or substituted with parsley if you prefer.

Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this Bang Bang Shrimp Salad is sure to delight your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Slaw
Begin by placing the broccoli slaw in a large mixing bowl. This crunchy base will give your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad a delightful texture. Set the bowl aside for now while you focus on seasoning and marinating the shrimp. Ensure everything’s easily accessible for quick assembly later.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Peel and devein the raw shrimp, rinsing them under cold water. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until fully coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together, while you heat up your skillet.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm for about 2 minutes. Once ready, it should feel hot to the touch. Adding olive oil to the skillet will provide a non-stick surface for cooking the marinated shrimp. Wait until you see the oil shimmering before proceeding.

Step 4: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, sriracha, and maple syrup to create your flavorful bang bang sauce. Stir until smooth and thoroughly combined, taste-testing to adjust the heat or sweetness to your preference. This sauce will tie your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad together beautifully.

Step 5: Sauté the Shrimp
Add the marinated shrimp to the heated skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and bright pink. Be careful not to overcook; this ensures the shrimp stay tender. Once done, remove them from heat and allow to cool for a moment while you get the rest of the salad ready.

Step 6: Toss the Shrimp with Sauce
In a mixing bowl, toss the cooked shrimp with about a tablespoon of the prepared bang bang sauce. This light coating will enhance their flavor while preventing the salad from getting soggy. Set aside as you season the slaw to create a vibrant balance in your dish.

Step 7: Season the Broccoli Slaw
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the broccoli slaw, and squeeze the juice of half a lime on top. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the slaw is lightly seasoned. This adds a zesty brightness that complements the spicy shrimp in your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.

Step 8: Combine the Slaw and Sauce
Mix the seasoned slaw with the remaining bang bang sauce, reserving a little for drizzling later. Fold in the chopped cilantro if using, allowing the fresh herb flavor to elevate your salad. This mix will create a colorful, flavorful base for the shrimp.

Step 9: Assemble and Serve
Finally, gently fold the sautéed shrimp into the broccoli slaw mixture until well combined. Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Salad immediately on a plate, drizzled with the reserved sauce for an added touch. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate flavor and crunch.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Salad

Cook Shrimp Perfectly: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be opaque and gently firm. Perfectly cooked shrimp will enhance the overall quality of your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Using high-quality Greek yogurt creates a creamier bang bang sauce, elevating the flavor. Don’t skimp on this step, as it significantly impacts the dish.
Customize Heat Levels: Adjust the sriracha to your taste. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more if you prefer extra spice in your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.
Prep Ahead: For efficiency, prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance but mix with the slaw just before serving. This keeps the salad crunchy and fresh.
Enhance Flavors: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. They add a burst of freshness that beautifully complements the shrimp and slaw.

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness, keep the slaw and shrimp separate until ready to serve.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad as the delicate textures of shrimp and slaw may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: If you’ve prepared the shrimp in advance, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating to keep the shrimp tender.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and bang bang sauce a day in advance. Combine with the broccoli slaw just before serving to keep your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad fresh and crunchy!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Bang Bang Shrimp Salad components are ideal for meal prep, making them perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the bang bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Simply store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the sauce sealed separately to maintain its creamy texture. For the slaw, mix the broccoli slaw with lime juice and seasonings just before serving to preserve its crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until cooked through, toss with the slaw and sauce, and relish the restaurant-quality Healthy Bang Bang Shrimp Salad with minimal effort!

Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Variations

Feel inspired to customize this delightful dish and make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt to cater to dairy-free diets while still maintaining creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to crank up the heat level in the bang bang sauce. A little bit goes a long way!
Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for an added layer of crunch and flavor. This will create a delightful contrast with the slaw.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate colorful veggies such as diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or sliced cucumbers for added freshness and nutrients. The more, the merrier!
Protein Swap: For a twist, replace shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. Each alternative will bring a unique flavor that suits different dietary needs.
Asian-inspired Flair: Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an authentic Asian touch. It adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Wrap It Up: For a fun variation, spoon the salad into lettuce wraps or whole-grain tortillas, turning it into a portable meal perfect for picnics or lunches.

If you love shrimp dishes, don’t miss checking out our delicious Honey Garlic Shrimp or Lemon Garlic Shrimp! They might just become your new favorites too!

What to Serve With Bang Bang Shrimp Salad

Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, partnering this vibrant salad with complementary sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Adds a delightful freshness with zesty lime and bright herbs, perfectly balancing the spicy shrimp.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy and luscious, avocado provides a rich texture that counters the salad’s crunch while keeping it healthy.
Sweet Potato Fries: A crispy and slightly sweet side that contrasts beautifully with the spicy notes in the Bang Bang Shrimp Salad to create a fulfilling meal.
Mango Salsa: Bursting with flavors, this tropical salsa adds a refreshing, fruity sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the heat of the shrimp.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky and sweet, grilled corn enhances the flavors of your meal, creating a delightful summer feast.
Light Beer or Iced Tea: A crisp, refreshing drink choice that matches the lightness of the salad without overpowering the flavors.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this creamy treat makes a guilt-free finish, echoing your salad’s theme of indulgence without the calories.

By choosing any of these pairings, your dining experience will be enriched, leaving your loved ones impressed and satisfied!

Bang Bang Shrimp Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh, wild-caught shrimp is preferred for the best flavor and texture, but you can also use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely under cold water before cooking. Look for shrimp that have a firm texture and are translucent, avoiding any with a strong fishy smell.

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Bang Bang Shrimp Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a good idea to keep the broccoli slaw separate from the shrimp and sauce to maintain their crunch. Simply combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this salad?
It’s best not to freeze the Bang Bang Shrimp Salad, as the shrimp and broccoli slaw can become mushy upon thawing. Instead, I recommend preparing the shrimp and bang bang sauce ahead of time and then mixing them with the slaw fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What if my shrimp become tough while cooking?
Very common! To avoid tough shrimp, make sure you’re cooking them only until they turn opaque and firm, usually 2-3 minutes on each side in a preheated skillet. If they’re overcooked, they can become rubbery. Keep a close eye on them, and don’t hesitate to remove them from the heat once they look just right!

Is this recipe suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Certainly! If you have a shellfish allergy or if you’re serving someone who does, you can easily substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times for the different protein choices to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you’re ready to whip up your salad. Just give it a good stir before using to recombine the ingredients.