Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

A delicious Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner. This vibrant dish combines marinated grilled shrimp with fresh ingredients like corn and avocado, creating a flavorful experience. It’s not only healthy but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for various occasions—from casual family meals to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The shrimp are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, thyme, and ancho chili powder, providing an irresistible taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring grilled corn, ripe avocados, and crisp greens, this salad bursts with freshness.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful salad quickly.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served as an appetizer or main course, satisfying different appetites.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad keeps you full while being guilt-free.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad, gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Wooden skewers
• Medium bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill adds that signature smoky flavor to the shrimp and corn.
• Wooden Skewers: These make it easy to cook the shrimp evenly while keeping them intact on the grill.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing all the fresh ingredients together without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large raw shrimp (fresh or thawed from frozen, peeled and deveined)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 1/2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
• 1 1/2 tbsp ancho chili powder (this ingredient is key for incredible flavor)
• 1 tsp fresh lime zest
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
• wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

For the Salad:

• 2 ears fresh corn (husks and silk removed)
• olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray
• coarse salt and pepper (for seasoning the corn and salad)
• 6-8 cups green leaf lettuce (can also use butter or romaine lettuce, chopped)
• 15 oz can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 large tomato (seeded and chopped)
• 1 lg avocado (chopped)
• 4 oz queso fresco cheese (crumbled)
• fresh chopped cilantro: for garnishing, if desired

How to Make Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill over medium heat. Brush the grill grate with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together olive oil, fresh chopped thyme, ancho chili powder, lime zest, and garlic.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
3. Thread the shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers.
4. Brush both sides of the shrimp with the marinade. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Spray both ears of corn with olive oil or avocado oil spray. Season lightly with coarse salt:
1. Grill the corn for 14–16 minutes, turning every 4 minutes.
2. Set aside to cool while grilling shrimp.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Increase your grill heat to high:
1. Cook the shrimp for about 1 ½ minutes per side until they turn golden and are no longer pink.
2. Season lightly with coarse kosher salt as they finish cooking.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add your salad greens.
2. Scrape grilled corn off the cob directly into the bowl.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, rinsed black beans, crumbled queso fresco cheese, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro if desired.
4. Top with grilled shrimp before serving.

Serve your Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad immediately with cilantro lime vinaigrette or your favorite dressing! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad is a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their perfect portion.

Family Style

• Present the salad on a large platter for a communal experience. This encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

With Dressing Options

• Offer a variety of dressings such as cilantro lime vinaigrette or creamy avocado dressing. This allows everyone to customize their salad according to their taste.

Topped with Extra Garnishes

• Add extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, additional queso fresco, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.

As a Side Dish

• Pair the salad with grilled meats or fish as a refreshing side. The flavors complement each other well, making it a versatile option.

How to Perfect Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

Creating the ultimate Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish stands out.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate the Shrimp: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the wonderful flavors from the marinade.
• Don’t Overcook: Grill shrimp just until they turn golden and opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Use High Heat for Grilling: Cooking at high heat helps achieve a nice char and enhances the smoky flavor.
• Customize Your Greens: Experiment with different greens like arugula or spinach for varying tastes and textures.
• Balance Flavors: Incorporate ingredients that add crunch or creaminess, such as nuts, seeds, or creamy dressings.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

To complement your Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad perfectly, consider serving these delightful side dishes. They add variety and enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.
2. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup that pairs well with shrimp salad, adding richness and depth.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice brings brightness to your meal.
4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy chips offers an enjoyable appetizer option.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds freshness alongside your salad.
6. Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with spices create a satisfying side that balances well with seafood dishes.
7. Stuffed Avocados: Halved avocados filled with tuna or chicken salad provide an elegant touch to your table setting.
8. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa brings fruity notes that pair beautifully with grilled shrimp flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad can be delightful, but certain common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the shrimp can lead to bland flavors. Always allow time for the shrimp to soak up the marinade for enhanced taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Aim for 1.5 minutes per side on high heat to ensure they remain juicy.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your corn and salad can result in a flat dish. Use coarse salt and pepper generously for maximum flavor.
• Using old or wilted greens: Starting with fresh salad greens is key. Check your greens for freshness before using them in your salad.
• Ignoring texture balance: Only using soft ingredients like avocado without crunch can make your salad less appealing. Incorporate crisp elements like fresh greens and grilled corn for better texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

• Freeze only the shrimp if you wish to preserve them.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; they last up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until heated, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add shrimp, cooking briefly until warmed, about 3-4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about preparing this delicious dish, here are some answers.

What makes this Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad special?

This salad is packed with vibrant flavors from the marinated shrimp, grilled corn, and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect summer meal.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad?

Yes, thawed frozen shrimp work well. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before marinating.

How can I customize my Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad?

Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like bell peppers, jalapeños, or different types of cheese according to your preference.

What dressing goes well with Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad?

A cilantro lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this salad, enhancing its fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Mexican Shrimp Salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to everyone. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or dressings to make it truly your own!