Looking for a refreshing dish that packs a flavorful punch? Dive into the vibrant world of our Zesty Shrimp and Black Bean Salad! This Mexican-inspired delight is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. With succulent shrimp, hearty black beans, and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of protein and freshness. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a quick, healthy meal, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Shrimp
- Black beans
- Red onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime juice
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water and drain completely.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, patting them dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and searing.
- Finely dice the red onion and slice cherry tomatoes in half for fresh, vibrant texture.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a zesty marinade.
- Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light golden sear, then remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black beans, diced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the bean mixture and gently toss with the prepared lime dressing.
- Chop fresh cilantro and sprinkle generously over the salad for added brightness and flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can rinse and drain the black beans and chop the vegetables in advance. This way, when you're ready to cook, everything is ready to go!
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should only take about 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and slightly golden, they're done!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lime juice and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness, so don’t skip it!
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 10 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, corn, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or can be served as a filling for tacos for a fun twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 170mg
