If you’re in search of a quick, nutritious, and delicious salad that can serve as a light lunch or dinner, look no further! Shrimp and Broccoli Salad with Corn and Eggs combines fresh and satisfying ingredients, creating a vibrant and healthy dish. The sweetness of the corn, paired with the savory shrimp and creamy hard-boiled eggs, adds layers of flavor and texture. Dressed in a tangy lemon-Dijon mustard vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet filling. Let’s dive into the easy steps to prepare this fresh and colorful salad!
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 1-2 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the broccoli and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps the broccoli retain its vibrant color and crispness.
Cook the Corn:
- If you’re using fresh corn, bring water to a boil and cook the corn for a few minutes until tender. Once done, cut the kernels off the cob.
- If using frozen corn, follow the package instructions to thaw it. You can also give it a quick sauté in a pan if you prefer.
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, broccoli florets, corn kernels, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
- If you’re using red onion, add it to the bowl as well for a bit of sharpness and crunch.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The dressing should be tangy with a hint of sweetness from the honey.
Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the shrimp, broccoli, and corn mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to break the eggs.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and nuttiness, if desired.
- Serve the salad immediately for a fresh, vibrant meal, or chill it in the refrigerator for later. This salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main course: This salad is hearty enough to be the centerpiece of a meal. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a light soup for a complete lunch or dinner.
- Add some greens: For an extra layer of freshness, serve this salad on a bed of mixed greens or arugula.
- Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a little sriracha over the salad before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Broccoli Salad with Corn and Eggs
- Swap the protein: You can easily swap the shrimp for grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for a different flavor profile.
- Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber for added freshness.
- Use homemade dressing: While store-bought dressing can be convenient, homemade is always better. Customize the dressing by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. It’s great for meal prep, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
How do I make this salad spicier?
Add some jalapeño slices, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to kick the heat up!
Conclusion
This Shrimp and Broccoli Salad with Corn and Eggs is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines fresh, nutritious ingredients into one bowl of deliciousness. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight meal, a picnic, or a healthy lunch, this salad is sure to impress. With its combination of savory shrimp, crunchy broccoli, sweet corn, and creamy eggs, topped with a tangy mustard-honey dressing, this dish offers a balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.