Zesty Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad: Your Go-To Easy Summer Dinner Recipe
As summer draws to a close and the scent of crisp autumn leaves hints at new beginnings, there’s a bittersweet feeling in the air. For many families, this period marks the last hurrah before school bells ring, signaling a return to busy routines, homework, extracurricular activities, and packed schedules. My own son is on the cusp of starting middle school, a transition filled with both excitement and a touch of nervous anticipation. While we’ve cherished a vibrant, activity-filled summer, the thought of settling back into a predictable routine is actually quite appealing. This time of year calls for meals that are not only delicious and satisfying but also quick, healthy, and easy to prepare, making the shift back to busy weekdays a little smoother. This is precisely where our vibrant Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad truly shines.
It’s a dish that captures the essence of late summer’s bounty while offering the convenience needed for upcoming hectic evenings. Imagine a salad so bursting with flavor, so colorful and texturally delightful, that it defies all traditional notions of a “salad.” This recipe does just that – it’s a refreshing departure from leafy greens, instead focusing on the natural sweetness of fresh corn and juicy tomatoes, perfectly complemented by succulent shrimp and the smoky, spicy kick of chorizo. It’s a meal that promises to be a hit with everyone, even the most discerning palates, and quickly become a regular feature in your weekly rotation.
Embracing the Summer Harvest: Fresh Ingredients are Key
My garden, like many others this time of year, is practically overflowing with a seasonal abundance of zucchini and tomatoes. It’s a joyful challenge to find new and creative ways to incorporate these fresh gifts into our meals. Just this week, I’ve already transformed some of my zucchini into delightful Zucchini Muffins and even whipped up a batch of decadent Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread during a fun Facebook Live session. But the stars of the show in my garden right now are undoubtedly the tomatoes. They’re just hitting their peak, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. From classic Bruschetta, a definite family favorite, to using them in savory dishes like Tuscan Chicken – swapping canned for fresh, ripe tomatoes makes all the difference – their versatility is unmatched.
This Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad offers another fantastic opportunity to showcase these garden-fresh gems. While I prefer using sweet grape tomatoes for their bursts of flavor and ease of preparation, any diced ripe tomato you have on hand will work beautifully. A little tip: remember to reserve a few uncooked tomato halves to sprinkle over the top of each serving at the end. This adds a wonderful pop of color and a fresh, bright contrast to the cooked components of the salad, enhancing both its visual appeal and its overall taste profile. The vibrant colors and rich flavors of peak-season vegetables are what truly elevate this dish from simple to sensational.
A Salad That Redefines Expectations: Flavor, Spice, and Simplicity
When I announced “salad for dinner,” my son’s initial reaction was a predictable groan. However, his skepticism quickly turned to curiosity when I assured him this wasn’t just any ordinary salad – there wasn’t a single leaf of lettuce in sight! The plate I presented to him, brimming with succulent shrimp, vibrant corn, and spicy chorizo, definitely sparked a moment of confusion. This isn’t your grandmother’s side salad; it’s a robust, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying main course that truly redefines what a salad can be.
The secret to its undeniable appeal lies in the harmonious blend of fresh, bright flavors from the sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, perfectly balanced by the savory depth and warming spice of chorizo. I typically use ground chorizo for convenience, but if you find it in links, simply slice it before cooking. The chorizo isn’t just a source of heat; it infuses the entire dish with a rich, complex flavor that is utterly addictive. It transforms what could be a simple shrimp and corn dish into something truly extraordinary. This dish is designed for busy schedules. Most of the salad can be assembled in advance and chilled in the fridge. Then, when dinner time rolls around, it’s just a matter of quickly cooking the chorizo and the shrimp-corn mixture. Within minutes, a healthy, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful meal is ready to be enjoyed by the entire family. It’s safe to say this Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad will be a frequent request at our dinner table, even from the pickiest eaters!
Ready to experience this amazing flavor combination for yourself? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this vibrant, easy summer meal to your kitchen!
Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad
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Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cup corn kernels, about 4 ears
- 1/3 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 Tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (9 oz) package chorizo
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh corn kernels, sliced green onions, sriracha sauce, minced garlic, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, and almost all of the halved grape tomatoes. Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure they are well combined. Remember to reserve a few tomato halves for garnish.
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Heat a large skillet over high heat until hot. Add the olive oil to the pan, swirling it to evenly coat the bottom. Add the chorizo (if using ground, break it up with a spoon; if using links, cook slices until browned). Cook for 5-7 minutes, until beautifully browned and cooked through. Next, add the shrimp and corn mixture to the skillet. Continue to cook for 6-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn opaque pink and are thoroughly cooked.
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To serve, divide the hot shrimp and chorizo mixture among plates. Top each serving with the reserved fresh tomato halves, the remaining chopped basil, and a fresh lemon wedge. A squeeze of lemon juice just before eating brightens all the flavors. Enjoy this delightful and satisfying meal!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Explore More Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipes
Looking for more convenient and delicious meal ideas that streamline your cooking and minimize cleanup? One-pan dinners are a true lifesaver, especially when life gets busy. They offer fantastic flavors without the fuss of multiple pots and pans, making them perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. If you enjoyed the simplicity and taste of our Shrimp, Chorizo, and Corn Salad, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic options from my collection and from fellow food bloggers:
- White Chicken Enchilada Skillet: All the creamy, cheesy goodness of enchiladas, made in a single skillet for ultimate ease.
- Creamy Salsa Chicken: A quick and flavorful chicken dish bathed in a rich, zesty sauce.
- One Pot Taco Casserole by Wonky Wonderful: Everything you love about tacos, layered into a comforting casserole.
- One Pan Maple Glazed Salmon with Roasted Cauliflower by Foodness Gracious: A healthy and elegant meal that comes together effortlessly on one sheet pan.
More Seasonal Delights: Summer Recipes You’ll Adore
Summer’s bounty is too good to let go of too quickly! If you’re looking to continue savoring the flavors of the season, especially with fresh corn and other garden delights, here are some more inspiring recipes that highlight the best of summer ingredients. These dishes are perfect for enjoying the last warm days or for those times you simply crave sunshine on a plate.
More Exciting Recipes You Might Enjoy:
If you’re eager to discover even more culinary creations, especially those featuring similar bold flavors or ingredients, take a look at these wonderful recipes from my fellow bloggers. They offer diverse ways to enjoy shrimp, corn, and other delightful combinations, ensuring there’s always something new to inspire your next meal:
- Creamy Shrimp & Corn Soup from Diary of a Recipe Collector: A comforting and rich soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
- Shrimp and Avocado Taco Salad from Iowa Girl Eats: A fresh and satisfying salad bursting with taco-inspired flavors.
- Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad from Dine and Dish: A vibrant salad that combines the heat of spicy shrimp with the creamy coolness of avocado.
- Spicy Shrimp, Black Beans and Corn from Savoring Time in the Kitchen: A hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.