Description
This Hot Honey Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad combines the smoky, spicy flavors of blackened shrimp with the sweet heat of hot honey, served over crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and grated Parmesan cheese for a deliciously bold and refreshing meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Blackening Spice
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (for drizzling)
Salad
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Optional: extra hot honey for drizzling on the salad
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackening Spice: In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the blackening seasoning.
- Season the Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and then coat evenly with the blackening spice mixture, ensuring every shrimp is well-covered for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of hot honey for a sweet and spicy finish.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing until leaves are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Salad: Divide the dressed romaine onto plates, top with the hot honey blackened shrimp, sprinkle croutons and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle optional extra hot honey over the salad for added heat and serve immediately while the shrimp are warm.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity if you prefer less heat.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp; thaw completely before cooking.
- For homemade Caesar dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese.
- Croutons can be store-bought or homemade from toasted bread cubes.
- Serve immediately to maintain crispness of lettuce and texture of shrimp.
