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Lime Cilantro Shrimp And Black Bean Salad

A quick and refreshing salad packed with protein and fiber, featuring shrimp, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Salad
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the salad base
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 serrano chile pepper, minced (optional) Skip if you prefer less heat.
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely minced
For the shrimp
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and cleaned Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Method
 

Building the Salad Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained black beans, diced avocado, sliced jalapeño, diced cucumber, and if using, the finely minced serrano chile.
  2. Add the finely minced cilantro and stir gently to combine without mashing the avocado. Set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  3. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shrimp starts turning pink, then flip them.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add lime juice and honey, letting it simmer for another 2 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked.
Combining the Salad
  1. Transfer the cooked shrimp and pan sauce into the bowl with the salad base.
  2. Gently stir to coat all ingredients in the dressing, taking care not to overmix.
Taste and Serve
  1. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning, adding more lime juice or honey if desired.
  2. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For best texture, prep components separately and combine just before serving.