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Flavorful Buffalo Party Bowl Recipe with Shrimp Scampi and Balsamic Vinaigrette for Easy Entertaining

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A quick and easy party bowl combining spicy buffalo shrimp scampi with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette over fresh salad greens, perfect for entertaining and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/3 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Optional: crumbled blue cheese or feta

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until combined. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is thick and emulsified. Set aside.
  2. Make the buffalo sauce: In a small bowl, combine hot sauce, melted butter, and honey. Stir well and set aside.
  3. Cook the shrimp scampi: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp in a single layer; season with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss shrimp to coat. Remove shrimp from heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
  4. Toss shrimp in buffalo sauce: Place cooked shrimp in a bowl and pour buffalo sauce over. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Assemble the party bowl: In serving bowls or a large platter, arrange mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado slices. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad base and toss lightly to combine. Top with the buffalo shrimp and sprinkle chopped parsley and optional cheese.
  6. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture; toss shrimp gently in buffalo sauce to prevent sogginess. Dress salad just before serving to keep greens crisp. Parsley garnish adds freshness and color. Butter quality affects flavor and cooking ease.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo shrimp, shrimp scampi, balsamic vinaigrette, party bowl, easy entertaining, quick recipe, spicy shrimp, salad bowl