Quick & Easy Grilled Shrimp Salad for Busy Day!

Grilled Shrimp Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly combines succulent shrimp, crisp greens, and a zesty dressing

Whether you’re craving a light lunch or looking for a healthy dinner option, this salad hits all the right notes.

The smoky, slightly charred shrimp adds a burst of flavor, while the fresh veggies provide a satisfying crunch.

With a few simple ingredients, you can have this refreshing and protein-packed meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for warm weather or any time you want a healthy, filling dish!

Ingredients

For the Grilled Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
• 1 cucumber (sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

To begin, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Toss the shrimp well to ensure they’re evenly coated.

Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Grill the Shrimp

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Once hot, thread the shrimp onto skewers or place them directly on the grill.

Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly charred. The shrimp should cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them.

Once cooked, remove from the grill and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

While the shrimp is grilling, prepare your salad base.

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

If you’re adding avocado and crumbled feta, now is the time to include them as well.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the shrimp is grilled and slightly cooled, arrange the shrimp on top of the prepared salad base.

For an appealing presentation, fan out the shrimp evenly across the salad.

This makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a bite of shrimp with each serving.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using) to create a simple vinaigrette.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss gently to coat the shrimp and veggies in the dressing.

Tips for the Best Grilled Shrimp Salad

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Grilled shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking makes shrimp tough and rubbery. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly charred.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh greens and vegetables. Opt for in-season produce to get the best taste and texture in your salad.
• Customize the Salad: Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Add extra toppings like roasted vegetables, olives, or nuts (like almonds or pecans) for added crunch.
• Perfect Marinade: For even more flavor, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes. You can even prepare the marinade in advance to save time on busy days.
• Don’t Overdress: When adding the dressing, drizzle it on top and toss gently to avoid wilting the greens. You can always add a little more dressing later if needed.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

This salad is packed with lean protein from the shrimp, healthy fats from the olive oil and avocado, and fiber from the veggies, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Salad is an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish that works for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, dinner, or a dish for your next BBQ.

With its combination of grilled shrimp, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

It’s versatile, customizable, and the perfect meal to keep you feeling energized and satisfied.

Give it a try, and enjoy a refreshing meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or use a quick-thaw method by placing them in a bowl of cold water.

2. What can I substitute for feta cheese in this salad?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.

You can also skip the cheese altogether for a lighter option.

3. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies, shrimp, and dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving.

This ensures the greens stay fresh and crisp.

4. Can I make this salad spicy?

Absolutely! Add a little bit of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade for a kick of heat.

You can also drizzle a spicy dressing or sriracha sauce on top.

5. What side dishes pair well with Grilled Shrimp Salad?

This salad can be enjoyed on its own, but for a more complete meal, pair it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted sweet potatoes.

A crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread also makes a perfect accompaniment.