Description
A vibrant and flavorful Blackened Shrimp and Corn Salad featuring spicy seasoned shrimp, charred corn, fresh vegetables, and a zesty cilantro lime dressing perfect for a light and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
For the Salad:
- 2 heads romaine lettuce (about 8 cups)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn (about 2 ears)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 mini cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped + more for garnish
For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:
- 1/4 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: Combine all the ingredients for the cilantro lime dressing in a high-powered blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp: In a large bowl, toss together the shrimp with the blackened seasoning until fully coated. Let the shrimp marinate while you char the corn.
- Char the corn: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook for about 15 minutes, until corn starts to brown. Alternatively, char ears of corn on the grill. Remove corn and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in an even layer and cook about 3 minutes on each side, until shrimp are opaque with a nice color. Alternatively, grill the shrimp on skewers. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Assemble the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine romaine lettuce, charred corn, grape tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, green onions, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with the cilantro lime dressing and toss gently to combine. Garnish with extra cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier shrimp, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/4 tsp.
- If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn can be used and thawed before charring.
- You can prepare the dressing a day ahead; store covered in the refrigerator.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, ensure honey is acceptable or substitute with agave syrup for a vegan option.
- Grilling shrimp and corn adds a smoky flavor but using a skillet works well for indoor cooking.
- Leftover dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.