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 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; For the dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper

Highlighted under: Balanced Lifestyle Recipes

I absolutely love preparing this High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad because it’s the perfect balance of flavors and nutrition. With plump, juicy shrimp grilled to perfection and a crunchy medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is both satisfying and energizing. I often whip it up for lunch or a light dinner, and it never fails to impress. The high protein content keeps me full and happy, making it an excellent option for any health-conscious meal plan. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which is a huge bonus!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:18:28.098Z

I remember the first time I grilled shrimp for a salad; the aroma that filled the air was simply irresistible. By marinating the shrimp in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, they become incredibly flavorful and juicy on the grill. I often serve it with a variety of colorful vegetables, which not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor and crunch!

This salad has become a staple in my household. I've experimented with different dressings, but a simple lemon vinaigrette always seems to work best. As a tip, make sure to grill the shrimp just enough to get that beautiful char while keeping them tender inside; overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein while being low in calories
Bursting with fresh tastes and vibrant colors
Versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to meal prep

The Perfect Grilling Technique

Grilling shrimp may seem easy, but achieving that perfect char and texture is an art. To start, make sure your grill is preheated to a medium-high temperature, around 400°F to 450°F. This ensures a good sear without overcooking the shrimp. Look for shrimp that are opaque and slightly curled once finished—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.

An easy way to prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill is to oil the grill grates lightly before cooking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to rub it over the grates, or spray a non-stick grilling spray. This step will help achieve beautiful grill marks and make flipping the shrimp hassle-free.

Ingredient Insights

The mix of fresh ingredients in this salad not only enhances its flavors but also contributes to its impressive nutritional profile. For instance, avocados provide healthy fats, which are not only satisfying but also help absorb the fat-soluble vitamins from the greens and other vegetables. If you're looking for a non-dairy alternative, you could substitute avocado with tahini or a handful of nuts for a similar fat content.

When it comes to shrimp, selecting high-quality seafood can significantly elevate your dish. Opt for wild-caught shrimp when possible, as they often have a better texture and flavor compared to farmed varieties. If shrimp are not available or if you're looking for an alternative protein source, grilled chicken or chickpeas work equally well in this salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this salad in advance is not only practical but can also enhance the flavor melding. You can marinate the shrimp the night before, which allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you're ready to grill. The salad can be prepped beforehand as well—just keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

If you have leftovers, you can store the assembled salad in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, the shrimp can lose their texture over time, so I recommend consuming those first. When reheating shrimp, do it gently using a microwave or skillet; heat just until warmed through to avoid rubberiness. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of your High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad even on busy days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious grilled shrimp salad.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
For the dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper

With these ingredients, you'll create a satisfying and healthy salad that tastes wonderful!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy grilled shrimp salad.

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the marinade, cover, and let them sit for 10 minutes.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium-high and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and have grill marks. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Toss gently to combine.

Add the Shrimp

Place the grilled shrimp on top of the salad mixture.

Drizzle with Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss lightly to combine.

Enjoy this delightful salad packed with flavor and nutrients!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful kick, try adding some chili flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different variation.

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Grilled Shrimp Salad is incredibly versatile and can be easily transformed into a more substantial meal. Pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier option. Adding some feta cheese or boiled eggs can elevate the flavor profile and nutritional content even further.

For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing the salad with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Not only do they add brightness, but they also provide an aromatic layer that complements the grilled shrimp beautifully. This is especially appealing for summer dining when you want something light yet filling.

Variations and Seasonal Swaps

Feel free to adapt this salad to adhere to seasonal produce; replacing cherry tomatoes with diced peaches or nectarines adds a surprising sweetness that pairs nicely with savory shrimp. Similarly, incorporating seasonal greens, such as arugula or baby kale instead of mixed greens, can provide a different flavor experience while maintaining great texture and nutrition.

For those seeking a bit of spice, add some sliced jalapeños to the salad or use a chipotle-infused dressing instead. This will give the dish a zesty kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. You could also ponder adding different vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for added crunch and color, allowing for endless creativity with each preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and grill the shrimp in advance, then combine just before serving.

→ What else can I add to this salad?

Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, or even some nuts for added crunch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep the dressing separate until serving.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep – just portion out the ingredients without dressing and store in the fridge until ready to eat.