Imagine a dish that combines the smoky char of perfectly grilled shrimp, the crisp freshness of mixed greens, and the tangy kick of cocktail sauce - all in one mouthwatering creation. This Grilled Shrimp Cocktail Salad isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your palate with every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cocktail sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the shrimp. If they are not already peeled and deveined, do so by removing the shell and the dark vein along the back of each shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the shrimp are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp on the grill. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if grilled for too long.
- While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced avocado. You can add additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or cucumber if desired.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly for a couple of minutes.
- To serve, divide the mixed greens and avocado between two plates. Top each salad with the grilled shrimp.
- Drizzle cocktail sauce over the shrimp or serve it on the side for dipping, according to your preference.
- Finish the dish by adding a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your Grilled Shrimp Cocktail Salad!
Tips
- Always buy fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before grilling to ensure perfect caramelization.
- Don't walk away from the grill - shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.
- Use medium-high heat to get those beautiful grill marks without burning.
- Consider using wooden skewers to make flipping shrimp easier and prevent them from falling through grill grates.
- For extra flavor, try marinating shrimp in garlic, lemon, and herbs for 15-20 minutes before grilling.
- Let grilled shrimp rest for a minute or two after cooking to retain their juiciness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 499kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 50g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 220mg
