Are you ready to elevate your salad game? This Shrimp Louie Salad Dressing recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, delivering a creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet dressing that's perfect for shrimp salads, but also surprisingly versatile! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal ready in minutes. It’s the perfect blend of homemade goodness and quick dinner ideas, ideal for those seeking delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, sweet pickle relish, horseradish, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Season: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You might find you prefer a little more lemon juice, or a touch more horseradish for a spicier kick.
- Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Spoon the Shrimp Louie dressing generously over your favorite shrimp salad, or use it as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Louie Dressing:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dressing.
- Adjust to Taste: Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your preferences. More ketchup will make it sweeter, more lemon juice will add brightness, and more horseradish will increase the heat.
- Make it Ahead: This dressing tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Louie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Dill Delight: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh dill for a herby and refreshing flavor profile.
- Avocado Creaminess: Blend in ½ an avocado for a richer, creamier dressing. Be sure to adjust the amount of mayonnaise accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise choice)
- Fat: High (mostly from mayonnaise)
- Protein: Low
- Carbohydrates: Low
This Shrimp Louie salad dressing recipe is incredibly easy, offering a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. It’s perfect for showcasing the fresh flavors of shrimp, turning a simple salad into a truly special dish. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!