Description
A vibrant and flavorful Blackened Shrimp Salad featuring spicy seasoned shrimp, charred bell peppers, and a creamy jalapeño cilantro dressing. This fresh and colorful salad combines protein-rich shrimp with a medley of vegetables and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Jalapeño Dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- 1 Jalapeño, seeds and ribs removed
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2-3 Tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- ¼ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt (more as needed)
- 1-2 Tbsp water (to thin the sauce as needed)
For the Blackened Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp (deveined, tails removed)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp white pepper
- ¼ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Salad
- 1-2 bell peppers, sliced thinly
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn kernels, thawed
- ½ cup pineapple chunks
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- 8 cups mixed greens
- 1 small avocado, sliced (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Make the creamy jalapeño dressing: Add all dressing ingredients including sour cream, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and water to a small blender or food processor. Blitz until smooth and combined, then set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp: Clean and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick. Place shrimp in a large bowl, add blackened seasoning spices (smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black and white pepper, oregano, salt), and mix well to coat thoroughly. Set aside.
- Char the bell peppers: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and let them sit without stirring for 3-4 minutes to develop a nice char. Flip to soften them evenly, then transfer to a plate.
- Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add another 1 tsp olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn lightly pink and are cooked through.
- Assemble the salad: Start with the mixed greens in a large bowl or individual serving plates. Layer on the charred bell peppers, black beans, corn, pineapple chunks, diced red onion, and cooked shrimp. Top with sliced avocado if desired. Drizzle generously with the creamy jalapeño dressing and serve immediately.
Notes
- Sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Make sure to dry the shrimp thoroughly to ensure seasoning adherence and optimal sear.
- Serve immediately after assembling for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
