Crisp, tart Granny Smith apples are lightly dressed with fresh lemon juice, Spanish extra-virgin olive oil, parsley, lemon zest, flaky sea salt, and smoked Spanish paprika. Ready in minutes, this bright, refreshing salad is a perfect complement to seafood, grilled meats, and summer meals. It is especially delicious served alongside Camarones al Ajillo, where its crisp texture and vibrant acidity balance the rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 large Granny Smith apple, cored and cut into very thin slices or matchsticks
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Spanish extra-virgin olive oil (preferably Picual or Hojiblanca)
• 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh lemon zest
• Pinch smoked Spanish paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon flaky sea salt
• Optional: 1 teaspoon finely chopped toasted Marcona almonds

Preparation

1. Place the sliced apple in a small bowl and immediately toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Add the olive oil, parsley, lemon zest, smoked paprika, and, if using, the toasted Marcona almonds. Toss gently until evenly coated.
3. Allow the salad to rest for 5 minutes.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with the flaky sea salt and toss gently one final time.
5. Serve a small nest of the apple salad alongside the Camarones al Ajillo, allowing guests to alternate bites of the crisp apple with the rich, garlicky shrimp.

Cook’s Notes

• Prepare the salad just before serving for the best texture and color.
• Granny Smith apples are recommended for their crisp texture and bright acidity, which beautifully complement the richness of the garlic-infused olive oil.
• Spanish Picual or Hojiblanca extra-virgin olive oil provides a traditional peppery, fruity flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the shrimp.
• If preparing the salad up to 10 minutes in advance, wait to add the flaky sea salt until immediately before serving to preserve the apples’ crisp texture.
• For additional color and a subtle peppery note, garnish with a few microgreens or small parsley leaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside Camarones al Ajillo as a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Enjoy a bite of the apple salad between bites of shrimp to enhance the contrast of flavors and textures.

Beverage Suggestions

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc
• Albariño
• Dry Spanish Cava
• Sparkling mineral water with a squeeze of fresh lemon