Blackened Shrimp Salad (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Shrimp
01 -
12 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
02 -
1-2 teaspoons blackening seasoning (adjust to your heat preference)
03 -
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
→ For the Salad
04 -
4 cups spring mix or your favorite lettuce blend
05 -
1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
06 -
1/2 cup grilled corn kernels (fresh off the cob if possible)
07 -
1/2 cup fresh pico de gallo
08 -
1 large ripe avocado, sliced
→ For Serving
09 -
Honey Jalapeño Dressing, Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing, or your favorite dressing
10 -
Lime wedges (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Make sure your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and tails removed for easy eating. Have all your salad ingredients ready to go - this salad comes together fast!
02 -
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. While the pan heats, sprinkle the blackening seasoning evenly over both sides of the shrimp. When oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
03 -
Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on the first side until they start to turn pink and develop a nice crust. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until fully opaque and slightly curled into a C-shape. Don't overcook or they'll become rubbery!
04 -
While the shrimp are cooking, divide the spring mix between two large bowls or plates. Arrange the black beans, grilled corn, pico de gallo, and avocado slices on top of the greens.
05 -
As soon as the shrimp are done, transfer them directly to the top of your prepared salads. The contrast between the warm, spicy shrimp and the cool, fresh vegetables is part of what makes this salad so special.
06 -
Drizzle your dressing of choice over the top - Honey Jalapeño, Creamy Cilantro Lime, ranch, or a simple drizzle of sour cream all work beautifully. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
# Notes:
01 -
This salad is incredibly versatile - feel free to add extras like sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, or crumbled cotija cheese for different flavor variations.
02 -
For a shortcut version, you can use pre-cooked frozen shrimp - just thaw, pat dry, season, and quickly sear them to heat through and get that blackened crust.
03 -
If you're making your own blackening seasoning, a typical blend includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt.