Fresh and Flavorful Grilled Shrimp and Corn Salad for a Perfect Summer Meal
Looking for a vibrant, healthy dish that combines smoky grilled shrimp with sweet corn and crisp vegetables? This Grilled Shrimp and Corn Salad is a bright, refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm-weather lunches, barbecues, or light dinners. Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh flavors, it’s easy to prepare and full of satisfying textures.
Whether served as a main or a side, this salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, quinoa, or your favorite chilled beverage.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Salad
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 ears fresh corn, husked
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Grilling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Corn
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the corn with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred and tender.
- Remove from grill and let cool slightly. Once cool, cut the kernels off the cob and set aside.
Step 2: Grill the Shrimp
- Toss shrimp with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers or place directly on the grill.
- Grill shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
- Add grilled shrimp to the bowl.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete summer feast.
- Spoon over mixed greens or baby spinach for extra veggies.
- Pair with crusty sourdough bread or warm tortillas for a casual meal.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Total Fat | 16 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sugars | 7 grams |
| Sodium | 360 milligrams |
Key Nutritional Benefits:
- Shrimp provides lean, high-quality protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Corn and vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins like vitamin C and A.
- Avocado and olive oil supply heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- The lime-based dressing keeps added sugars low while delivering bright, fresh flavor.
Tips for Success
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use fresh, ripe avocados for creamy texture and rich flavor.
- For added heat, sprinkle chopped jalapeño or drizzle with hot sauce.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the corn and sauté the shrimp in a hot skillet.
Variations to Try
- Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or tofu for different proteins.
- Add black beans or quinoa to make the salad more filling and hearty.
- Toss in chopped mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical twist.
- Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the dressing for smoky heat.
This Grilled Shrimp and Corn Salad offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and fresh flavors with a vibrant mix of textures. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, it’s a versatile dish ideal for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive summer gatherings.
Try it once, and it might just become your go-to salad recipe for grilling season!
