Crispy Rice Salad with Garlic Shrimp and Sesame Dressing
This crispy rice salad is packed with crispy rice, garlicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a nutty sesame dressing. If you're looking for a salad that actually gets you excited for lunch or dinner, this Crispy Rice Garlic Shrimp Salad is about to be your new favorite. It is crispy, savory, garlicky, and super refreshing!
Mix the cooked rice with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil (optional).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the seasoned rice to the baking sheet, press the rice in a single later, flattening with a spatula.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is golden brown and crispy. Set aside.
Make Garlic Shrimp
While the rice is in the oven, prepare the garlic shrimp. In a pan, heat 1 tbsp of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add shrimp and cook on both sides. Add salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Mix and set aside.
Make Sesame Dressing
Using a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind the sesame seeds until sandy. In a bowl, add ground sesame seeds, kewpie mayo, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad
Add cucumber, red onion, red bell pepper, green onion, and fresh parsley to a big bowl. Top with garlic shrimp and crispy rice and pour dressing on top. Toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!