Some recipes are made to impress, while others are simply unforgettable. This one does both. Inspired by a rich blend of summery sweetness and savory indulgence, this Cool Whip Shrimp Scampi meets Fruit Salad fusion is a vibrant twist that surprises the palate in the best way possible.
Long ago, my grandmother crafted dishes that danced between comfort and curiosity. For instance, she once tossed buttery shrimp scampi over a fresh fruit salad. While it seemed unconventional at first, the result was undeniably addictive. That moment of flavor harmony stuck with me, and now, I’ve recreated it—elevated and ready for your table.
Whether you’re hosting a laid-back barbecue or preparing a cozy holiday dinner, this versatile dish fits any season. It’s creamy, zesty, and just a bit tropical. Plus, it’s as photogenic as it is delicious.
🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 6
Ingredients
For the Cool Whip Shrimp Scampi :
- 1 cup strawberries, halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 cup seedless grapes (green or red)
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Lobster Shrimp Scampi:
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb lobster tail meat, chopped
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cool Whip Fruit Salad
To begin, place all the fruits—strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, banana, and grapes—into a large mixing bowl.
Next, gently fold in the Cool Whip, ensuring the fruit is evenly coated without bruising the pieces.
For added richness, stir in the Greek yogurt.
Then, sprinkle in the lime zest and a light drizzle of honey if you prefer a sweeter finish.
After that, cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil.
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking just until fragrant—usually about one minute.
Afterward, toss in the shrimp and lobster meat. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the lobster is opaque.
Then, deglaze the pan with white wine and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Finally, season with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and a generous handful of chopped parsley.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Once the seafood is done, it’s time to assemble.
Start by spooning a chilled layer of fruit salad onto a large platter or individual serving plates.
Top it with a warm scoop of shrimp and lobster scampi.
For a final touch, garnish with a bit of extra citrus zest and a sprig of parsley.
Why This Recipe Works
On paper, it might sound a little wild. However, the creamy tang of the Cool Whip fruit salad pairs remarkably well with the buttery, garlicky seafood.
The sweet and savory contrast keeps each bite exciting. Plus, the dish brings a balance of textures—from juicy fruits to tender shrimp and flaky lobster.
As a bonus, this dish offers flexibility. It’s just as suited for a backyard dinner party as it is for a festive winter potluck.
Tips & Variations
- For a tropical upgrade: Consider adding diced mango, kiwi, or toasted coconut to the fruit salad.
- Prefer more heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the scampi.
- No lobster on hand? Substitute with extra shrimp or lump crab meat.
- Looking for a vegetarian version? Replace seafood with roasted cashews or marinated tofu chunks.
What to Serve With It
This dish is versatile, but here are a few pairing suggestions:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or lightly oaked Chardonnay
- Warm, crusty garlic bread or sourdough rolls
- A light cucumber and mint salad or grilled asparagus
Reader Challenge
Have you ever mixed seafood and fruit in one dish? I’d love to hear your spin on this unexpected combo!
Try it out and share your version on social media using #CoolWhipScampiTwist—you might just inspire someone else to think outside the salad bowl!