There’s something magical about a salad that doesn’t feel like “just a salad.” Enter the Keto Cajun Shrimp Caesar Salad—a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and perfect for those chasing low-carb goals without compromising on flavor.
This recipe brings together the smoky heat of Cajun-spiced shrimp with the creamy tang of Caesar dressing, all layered over crisp Romaine lettuce. It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget you’re even eating healthy, and trust me, that’s saying something.
I first made this salad on a busy weeknight, trying to balance a hectic schedule with my keto lifestyle. The shrimp were ready in minutes, perfectly golden and fragrant from a quick sear in my cast iron skillet. Adding freshly grated Parmesan and crunchy keto croutons elevated it to restaurant quality—without the carb overload.
Did you know that shrimp is not only low in carbs but also packed with protein and essential nutrients like selenium? Pairing it with Caesar salad is a genius move that combines nutrition with indulgence.
This salad has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
And if you’re as much of a seafood lover as I am, don’t miss out on Honey Mustard Garlic Shrimp or Instant Pot Keto Chicken for another flavorful option!
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- A quick Cajun sear for maximum flavor: The shrimp are coated in spices that caramelize beautifully in just a few minutes.
- Perfectly creamy Caesar dressing: It ties everything together without overwhelming the dish, making every bite rich but balanced.
- Keto-friendly croutons for crunch: These take minutes to whip up and keep the carb count low while satisfying that irresistible crunch craving.
- A customizable base: Romaine is classic, but this works with kale or spinach, too.
Keto Cajun Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Large skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Large serving bowl
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Caesar salad dressing
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cups Roma tomatoes (diced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and patted dry)
- 1 head Romaine lettuce (chopped; ~8 cups)
Instructions
- To prepare the Keto Cajun Shrimp Caesar Salad, start by making the Caesar dressing according to the provided instructions and set it aside.
- Toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 minute until they begin to brown.
- Flip the shrimp and sear for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing, tomatoes, and parmesan.
- Serve the salad on plates or bowls, topping each with Cajun shrimp.
Notes
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- For extra crunch, add some crispy bacon bits or roasted nuts.
- Make the dressing ahead of time for quick meal prep.
Nutrition | Value |
Calories | 412kcal |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fibre | 6.3g |
Fat | 29.2g |
Protein | 29.7g |
Tips That Will Ease Your Job!
- Prep Ahead: Make the Caesar dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This saves time when you’re ready to make the salad.
- Use Frozen Shrimp: If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp works just as well. Simply thaw and pat them dry before seasoning.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies like avocado, cucumber, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Season in Layers: For an even flavor, sprinkle Cajun seasoning in stages—first on the shrimp, then toss a little into the salad mix.
- Perfectly Sear Shrimp: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to get that perfect golden sear.