If you’re craving a salad that bursts with bold flavors and a bit of a spicy-sweet kick, the Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together perfectly seasoned shrimp with a smoky blackened crust, a drizzle of sticky hot honey that dazzles your taste buds, and the classic crisp, creamy Caesar salad you love. It’s an easy yet impressive way to elevate your salad game and make every bite memorable.

Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe plays an important role, from creating that signature spicy blackened coating on the shrimp to adding crunch, creaminess, and freshness to your plate. Simple and straightforward, this list sets the stage for a delicious meal.

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, juicy and quick to cook with a delicate seafood flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices stick and adds a lovely richness to the shrimp when seared.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a sweet and smoky depth without overpowering the dish.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings the perfect spicy heat that pairs beautifully with the hot honey.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the savory profile with that classic garlicky warmth.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the blackening seasoning.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives an earthy, herbaceous note that complements the seafood.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
2 tablespoons hot honey (for drizzling): The game-changing drizzle that marries sweet, spicy, and sticky.
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped: Crisp and refreshing, the perfect canvas for bold shrimp.
1 cup Caesar dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties the whole salad together.
1 cup croutons: Adds irresistible crunch with a buttery, garlicky bite.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, for a classic Caesar finish.
Optional: extra hot honey for drizzling on the salad: For those who want to dial the sweet heat up even more.

How to Make Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Blackening Seasoning

First, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend is what gives your shrimp that signature blackened crust packed with flavor without needing any complicated marinade.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil to coat evenly. Then, sprinkle the blackening seasoning mix all over the shrimp, making sure each piece is generously covered. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until you see that beautiful charred exterior and the shrimp turn opaque. Remove from heat and immediately drizzle with 2 tablespoons of hot honey to infuse a luscious balance of heat and sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Caesar Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing until every leaf is luxuriously coated. Add in the croutons to bring in extra texture, making sure the salad feels lively and crunchy.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Place the blackened shrimp on top of your dressed romaine and croutons, then sprinkle the salad generously with grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal, drizzle a bit more hot honey if you like it on the spicy side. Your vibrant, flavorful Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can turn this already fantastic salad into a real showstopper. Consider fresh lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the shrimp for a zesty brightness. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a beautiful pop of green and an herbal freshness that pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp.

Side Dishes

This salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crunchy garlic bread or a light soup like tomato bisque for a complete meal. A chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lime complements the spicy-sweet flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve this salad in individual clear glasses for a layered look that lets all the vibrant colors shine. Or, make shrimp lettuce wraps by placing the blackened shrimp, Caesar greens, and drizzle of hot honey in crisp romaine leaves for a fun, hands-on twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, keep the shrimp and salad components separate in airtight containers. Store the shrimp and dressing in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and avoid soggy greens.

Freezing

Because of the fresh lettuce and dressing, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. However, if you want to freeze the shrimp alone, place cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheating

Reheat the blackened shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes to avoid overcooking. For the best texture, toss fresh greens with dressing again when ready to serve instead of reheating the salad as a whole.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This ensures they crisp up nicely and don’t steam in the pan.

Is hot honey very spicy?

Hot honey strikes a wonderful balance between sweetness and heat, making it approachable for many palates. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount or opt for a milder honey.

Can I make my own Caesar dressing?

Definitely! Homemade Caesar dressing made with anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese adds even more depth. But store-bought versions work wonderfully for a quick fix too.

What can I substitute for romaine lettuce?

While romaine is classic here for its crunch and crisp texture, you can try kale, spinach, or mixed greens. Just keep in mind that darker greens may change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make crunchy croutons at home?

Simply toss cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp. They’re fresher and tastier than store-bought!

Final Thoughts

This Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s the perfect combo of spicy, sweet, creamy, and crunchy that feels indulgent yet fresh. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or impressing guests at dinner, you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious it is. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!