High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad

Name: High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined; 5 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Bright & Healthy Bites

I love how this High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors while still being nutritious. The juicy grilled shrimp, mixed greens, and zesty dressing create a delightful dish that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, making this salad a go-to for any busy weeknight. Plus, it's packed with protein, ensuring I'm satisfied without feeling weighed down. Let's dive in and enjoy this refreshing meal together!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:58:28.552Z

Creating this High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad became one of my favorite culinary adventures. I was inspired by the vibrant flavors of summer, and the shrimp grill beautifully to enhance their natural sweetness. By marinating the shrimp beforehand, they absorb the flavors, resulting in a truly delightful dish. I’ve also experimented with various greens and vegetables, allowing me to mix it up based on what I have on hand!

The key tip I’d share is to let the shrimp rest for a few minutes after grilling. This simple step locks in the juiciness and prevents them from becoming rubbery. I often serve it with a bright citrus dressing that elevates the entire dish, making every bite a burst of flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein from shrimp
Fresh, vibrant vegetables add crunch and nutrients
Zesty dressing elevates the flavor profile perfectly

Choosing the Right Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this salad, opt for high-quality, fresh shrimp. Look for options that are labeled as 'wild-caught' for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water to ensure they cook evenly later. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, ocean-like smell and a firm texture, indicating that they are at their best.

The size of the shrimp can significantly affect the end result. Medium to large shrimp (16-20 count) are ideal here, as they provide that satisfying bite while grilling. If you prefer smaller shrimp, adjust the grilling time to 1-2 minutes on each side. Just be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery when they are overdone.

Perfecting the Grilling Technique

Grilling shrimp can be a delicate process, so using a grill basket or skewers can help prevent them from falling through the grates. If using skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to avoid burning. Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature, ideally around 400°F to 450°F. This ensures quick cooking while achieving those beautiful grill marks that enhance the flavor.

Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they should turn a bright pink with slightly charred edges. The key to perfect shrimp is to remove them from the grill once they've reached an opaque appearance—about 2-3 minutes per side should be sufficient. This results in juicy shrimp that are packed with flavor without being overcooked.

Customizing Your Salad

This High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or seasonality. For instance, diced bell peppers or shredded carrots can add extra crunch and color. If you want to add even more protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or a sprinkle of feta cheese, which would pair beautifully with the zesty dressing.

To keep the salad fresh if you're meal prepping, consider storing the dressing separately. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps the salad crisp. You can also pack the salad ingredients in separate containers for quick assembly at lunch. This makes it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet effortless to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
5 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, diced

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Add the grilled shrimp on top.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Plate the salad and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavors!

Tips

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or grains such as quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time, marinate the shrimp the night before. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper and enhances the overall taste. Store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can safely last for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.

You can also prepare the dressing ahead of time. Whisk together the ingredients and store them in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. This not only saves time during meal preparation but also allows the flavors to meld together nicely, resulting in a more robust dressing.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover salad, it's best to store the components separately for optimal freshness. Keep the shrimp in an airtight container and the salad ingredients in another. This way, the mixed greens won’t wilt, and the shrimp will stay juicy. Your grilled shrimp can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. I recommend microwaving for a quick fix, but be cautious to avoid drying them out. Toss the chilled salad ingredients together with the dressing again for that fresh flavor revival.

Serving Ideas

This salad can be elevated by serving it with whole-grain bread or toast, making it a more complete meal. You could also serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice to bulk it up with healthy grains. If serving at a gathering, consider placing the dressing on the side, allowing guests to add as much or as little as they prefer.

For an extra touch, garnish the salad with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant visual appeal, making your salad even more inviting. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can also add a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, corn, or radishes for additional flavor and crunch.

→ Can this salad be made ahead of time?

While the shrimp is best fresh, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and grill the shrimp just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for lime juice?

You can use lemon juice or even apple cider vinegar as an alternative.