Shrimp Louie Salad (Classic West Coast Seafood Salad)
Description
Shrimp Louie Salad is a classic American seafood salad that originated on the West Coast in the early 1900s. It’s known for its refreshing combination of chilled shrimp, crisp lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and a rich, tangy Louie dressing made with mayonnaise, chili sauce, lemon, and spices. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for lunch, brunch, or a summer dinner.
Time Required
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 5–7 minutes (if cooking shrimp)
Chilling time: 10–15 minutes (optional, for best taste)
Total time: ~30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tsp salt (for boiling shrimp)
1 tsp lemon juice (for boiling water)
1 large head romaine lettuce (or iceberg), chopped
2–3 hard-boiled eggs, halved or quartered
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced (optional but recommended)
½ cucumber, sliced (optional)
2 tbsp capers (optional, for briny flavor)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Louie Dressing
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp chili sauce (like Heinz chili sauce)
1 tbsp ketchup (optional for sweetness)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp horseradish (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of paprika or cayenne for heat
Instructions
1. Cook the shrimp
Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add salt and lemon juice.
Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, until pink and opaque.
Immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
Drain and pat dry. Chill in the fridge.
2. Prepare the dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chili sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
Refrigerate until ready to serve (flavor improves as it chills).
3. Assemble the salad
Arrange lettuce on a large platter or individual bowls.
Add shrimp, eggs, tomatoes, avocado, and cucumber.
Spoon dressing generously over the top or serve on the side.
Garnish with capers and lemon wedges.
4. Serve
Serve immediately while chilled for best texture and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare ingredients and dressing up to 24 hours ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep lettuce crisp.
Is Louie dressing spicy?
Mildly. You can adjust heat by increasing or reducing horseradish and chili sauce.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
Crab meat, imitation crab, or grilled chicken work well.
How long does it last?
Once assembled, eat within 24 hours for best quality.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
(based on 4 servings)
Calories: 380–450 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Fat: 25–30 g
Carbohydrates: 10–14 g
Fiber: 4–6 g
Sugar: 3–5 g
Sodium: 700–900 mg