This classic Shirmp Louie Salad Dressing is creamy and full of flavor. This dressing is similar to a thousand island dressing and adds the perfect pairing to the vibrant and fresh flavor of the salad!

Shrimp Louie salad is my newest shrimp salad crush. This is one of those easy recipes that is fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. The quick cook time for the shrimp and eggs make this a fantastic weeknight meal or even an elevated work from home lunch. For all of these reasons and more, this is my favorite of all the Louie salads, although the Dungeness crab Louie comes in a close second!

What is Shrimp Louie Salad?

Shrimp Louie is a traditional Californian salad that was invented in San Francisco in the early 1900s. It typically includes bay shrimp, boiled eggs, lettuce and tomato. Shrimp Louie dressing has a taste similar to a thousand island dressing, and typically includes mayonnaise, ketchup, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onions, salt, and pepper. I describe the flavors in this salad as similar to a West Coast version of a French Niçoise salad, without the green beans and olives.

Another delicious variation on this dish is the Crab Louie salad, which uses all of the same ingredients and dressing, but simply substitutes lump crab meat for the shrimp!

What Do I Need to Prepare Shrimp Louie Salad Dressing?

One of the things I love about this meal is its fresh ingredients. While the full dressing ingredients list is available below, here are some tips on what you will need to make the tastiest Louie salad!

• Half cup mayonnaise; I usually use half fat
• Dijon mustard
• Fresh lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Tabasco sauce
• Honey
• Half teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Capers, drained
• Garlic powder
• Paprika

Other spices that could be good in this sauce include old bay seasoning, onion powder, or even minced red onion.

How to Prepare Seafood Louie Dressing

Here are some tips to prepare this traditional dressing for Shrimp Louie salad. I think this dressing is truly the main star of this salad!

I love how simple this dressing for Shrimp Louie salad recipe is! This recipe makes a lot of dressing, so you may not need to use all of it. You can refrigerate any leftover dressing in an airtight container for up to one to two weeks.

• If you want to have a super smooth dressing, with no noticeable capers, then you will prepare your dressing using a food processor. Add all ingredients to a small food processor. Pulse until the capers have been combined, then set on high for 30 seconds. Drizzle over your salad to toss. Place your tossed salad in individual salad bowls and drizzle with just a little more Louis dressing. Add your hard boiled eggs and ripe avocado on the side. I also top with a couple more capers for good measure. Enjoy!
• If you don't mind having noticeable capers in your dressing, simply add all of the ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk together until well combined. If your dressing is too thick, add a small amount of cold water to the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. Repeat with a little water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Personally, I use this method when I am feeling lazy, as it gives just as delicious results with minimal effort and less dishes!

While I like to top with a small sprinkle of capers, you could also top this delicious salad with sliced green onions to add a nice crunch. Black olives would also be a great addition. The crisp Romaine lettuce pairs perfectly with this creamy dressing in this vibrant Shrimp Louie salad. Cherry tomatoes burst with each bite, and the acidity is perfectly offset with this dressing. Grilled shrimp add a beautiful flavor and texture to the meal. It is truly my new favorite shrimp salad recipe ever!

Other Recipes You Will Love

If you loved this recipe and are looking for to try, check out the quick links to these healthy salad recipes! All would be great as a side or main.

• Salmon and Chipotle Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
• Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Farro and Kale Winter Salad
• Easy Kale Caesar with Shrimp and Chickpeas
• Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
• Greek Style Tuna Salad