15 Minute Spicy Blackened Shrimp Salad

Name: 15 Minute Spicy Blackened Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 10 oz. medium-large shrimp; 1 bag salad mix ((any kind)); 4 tsp. blackened seasoning; 1 avocado, (diced); Grape tomatoes, (halved); 1/4 red onion, (sliced); 1 green apple, (diced); 1/2 cup fresh mango; 1 1/2 tbsp. fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp. honey; 1 garlic clove (minced); 3/4 tsp. sea salt; 1 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar; 1/2 tsp. chili flakes

By Danielle on May 13, 2019, Updated April 10, 2022 41 Comments

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Made with juicy, succulent shrimp and topped with a fresh made mango dressing, this Blackened Shrimp Salad is packed with flavor and only takes 15 minutes to make!

I'm not a salad person. I prefer a big bowl of creamy pasta, a juicy steak, or hearty soups. Carbs, carbs, and more carbs. I want them all.

That said, sometimes you just need a salad. Like when it's 90 degrees outside and your air conditioning is not faring well. Or when you are dealing with a serious food hangover because you ate too much creamy pasta or steak or dessert the night before.

And sometimes you just need something quick. And easy. And healthy because of the heat and food hangover. You need Blackened Shrimp Salad.

Because we don't scrimp on taste around here. If I'm going to eat a salad, it better be damn tasty. And this Blackened Shrimp Salad is just that. It's amazing.

Plus it has this oh-so-delicious mango dressing that is just so easy to make. Fresh mango, white balsamic vinegar and a few herbs and spices in a blender. That's it. Easy peasy.

And that mango dressing with those juicy, succulent slightly spicy, blackened shrimp. Plus fresh tomatoes and avocado and apple and red onion....all the good stuff guys. THIS is the salad you want to be eating, even if you usually scrunch your nose up at salad like me.

Plus it's been certified man-approved by the boyfriend.

You can also try out the blackened seasoning on this Blackened Catfish recipe that super easy to make and just incredible!

And if seafood just isn't your thing, check out this awesome Blackened Chicken Recipe from Cooking with Janica.

What is the Difference Between Blackened and Cajun?

Blackened seasoning tends to be less spicy than your typical Cajun seasoning, and a little less herby than Creole seasoning. It falls right in the middle of the two, with the perfect amount of herbs and spice.

Why This Recipe Works

Fresh mango dressing complements the intense flavor of the blackened shrimp.
Using larger shrimp helps them to stay juicy and succulent.
It only takes 15 minutes to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights.
The shrimp can be made in advance for convenience.

Step By Step Instructions

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and coat evenly with the blackened seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon butter, bacon fat, coconut oil or other cooking oil over medium high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until cooked through and no longer opaque.

Combine the remaining salad ingredients in a large bowl and top with the blackened shrimp and avocado. Drizzle with the mango dressing (below).

How To Make Mango Dressing

Combine all ingredients in blender.

Blend until smooth. Yes, it's that simple. The dressing can be stored in a seal-able jar in the fridge for up to one week.

Expert Tips

Use the fan while cooking the shrimp - the blackened seasoning has a tendency to smoke.
Don't overcook the shrimp or it will be chewy.
Substitute other fruit for mango if you don't like mango. Most fruits will work.

FAQs:

Can You Make the Shrimp Ahead of Time?

The shrimp can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. The shrimp can also be eaten cold if desired.

Is Blackened Shrimp Good for You?

Shrimp is very low in fat and high in protein, making it a great healthy option. However, note it does have high levels of LDL cholesterol.

Rate the recipe and leave a comment to let me know how it turned out!