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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly with the spices. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the salad ingredients.2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they curl up and turn opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the shrimp cooks, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, and red bell pepper. Toss gently to mix.4. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.5. Assemble the Salad
Once the shrimp are cooked, arrange them on top of the salad. Drizzle the chili-lime dressing over the entire salad and toss gently to combine everything. If you like, sprinkle a little extra fresh cilantro over the top for added color and flavor.6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for a few minutes before serving if you prefer it cooler. You can also serve it with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.Tips for Perfect Chili Lime Shrimp Salad:
- Marinate the Shrimp: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes gives the spices time to infuse the shrimp with flavor. If you have more time, you can marinate them for up to 30 minutes.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Grilled corn, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots would all make great additions.
- Cook the Shrimp Just Right: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them will make them rubbery. Aim for a nice pink color and avoid any translucent bits.
- Make it Ahead: If you’re prepping this salad in advance, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
- Add Crunch: For some crunch, try adding tortilla strips, crushed nuts (like almonds or cashews), or roasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Lime Shrimp Salad:
- Bursting with Flavor: The chili-lime combination provides the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory, while the shrimp adds a delicious seafood flavor.
- Healthy & Light: Packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from avocado, and lean protein from shrimp, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a short cook time, this salad comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight or meal prep.
- Customizable: You can tweak the spice levels, swap out ingredients, or add your favorite toppings to make this salad your own.
Variations You Can Try:
- Spicy Version: If you like your dishes extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade or toss in a chopped jalapeño into the salad for some heat.
- Grilled Shrimp: For a smokier flavor, grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them. This also adds a nice char that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
- Add Cheese: If you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle some crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the salad for an added tangy richness.
- Serve as a Wrap: For a fun twist, wrap the chili-lime shrimp and salad in a whole wheat tortilla for a flavorful, handheld meal.
