This blackened shrimp salad is made with juicy air-fried shrimp, crisp veggies, and a creamy cilantro lime dressing that brings the perfect balance of smoky, fresh, and brightness to every bite.
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When you want something light but still full of bold flavor, this blackened shrimp salad always delivers. The shrimp are tossed in a smoky blackened seasoning and cooked in the air fryer so they get perfectly crisp on the edges while staying juicy inside, just like in my air fryer buffalo shrimp. Piled on top of crunchy greens, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and drizzled with a zesty cilantro lime dressing, this salad somehow manages to feel light and comforting at the same time, which is exactly why I also love making my mango pico de gallo when I am in the mood for something bright and fresh.
I reach for recipes like this all the time when I want something that feels satisfying without being heavy. It is the kind of salad that actually feels like a real, comforting meal and not just a bowl of greens.
What makes this recipe unique?
What really makes this one special is how it eats like a full meal, not just a side salad. Between the protein packed shrimp, creamy avocado, and vibrant toppings, it feels hearty and satisfying while still being light enough to leave you feeling good after you eat. This salad is all about big flavor without a lot of fuss. Instead of pan frying, the shrimp are cooked in the air fryer so they get those slightly crispy, blackened edges while staying juicy inside, and it only takes a few minutes to throw together.
Can I make blackened shrimp salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the blackened shrimp and make the dressing up to three days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just reheat the shrimp slightly and assemble the salad fresh so everything stays crisp.
Is blackened shrimp salad spicy?
It has a little kick from the blackened seasoning, but it is not overwhelming. If you are sensitive to heat, you can reduce or skip the cayenne in the seasoning and it will still have tons of flavor.
Kaleena's Tips
- Pat the shrimp dry before adding the seasoning so the blackened spices stick and crisp up better in the air fryer.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Giving the shrimp space helps them get those slightly crispy edges.
- If you prefer a milder salad, leave out the cayenne or use a mild blackened seasoning.
- Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crunchy.
Storing and reheating
Storing: Store the cooked blackened shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the salad ingredients and dressing stored separately so the greens stay crisp. The cilantro lime dressing will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When you are ready to eat, gently reheat the shrimp and toss everything together right before serving.
If you make this recipe, I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a star rating or drop a comment below. Your feedback means so much to me! And if you snap a photo, tag me on Instagram at @kaleenas.kitchen so I can see your version!
Recipe
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing (Air Fryer)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Ingredients
Blackened Shrimp
- .5 pound shrimp (deveined and tails off)
- ยฝ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ยผ teaspoon garlic powder
- ยผ teaspoon onion powder
- ยผ teaspoon dried oregano
- ยผ teaspoon salt
- ยผ teaspoon pepper
- โ teaspoon cayenne A tiny pinch will be enough for some heat
Salad Toppings
- spring mix
- 1 avocado
- ยผ cup corn
- ยผ cup red onion (diced)
- ยฝ bell pepper (sliced)
Cilantro Lime Dressing
- ยฝ cup cilantro
- โ cup olive oil
- ยผ cup lime juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 teaspoon honey
- ยผ teaspoon salt
- ยผ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Clean and dry the shrimp with a paper towel.
- Add the shrimp and seasonings to a medium sized bowl and combine. Make sure all the shrimp are coated in the seasoning.
- Place the shrimp evenly in the air fryer basket, then cook at 400 degrees for 7-8 minutes.
- While the shrimp is cooking prep all your salad toppings.
- Add the dressing ingredients to a wide mouth glass jar and blend with the immersion blender until smooth and creamy. You can also use a blender.
- When the shrimp are cooked, assemble your salad and top with the dressing.
Notes
- Pat the shrimp dry before adding the seasoning so the blackened spices stick and crisp up better in the air fryer.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Giving the shrimp space helps them get those slightly crispy edges.
- If you prefer a milder salad, leave out the cayenne or use a mild blackened seasoning.
- Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crunchy.
Nutrition
*nutrition information is an approximate
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Hi, I'm Kaleena!
Here you'll find wholesome comfort food made with real ingredients and big flavor. I share easy, approachable recipes designed for everyday life, from 30-minute dinners and simple side dishes to cozy soups and crowd-pleasing favorites.
Many of my recipes are naturally gluten free or easily adapted with simple swaps, but the focus is always on real food that tastes amazing and feels doable. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend at home, my goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen and enjoy cooking meals you're excited to make.
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