What's For Dinner: Grilled Shrimp and Mango Salad

June is here, isn't it? The days stretch out, long and warm, and sometimes I feel a bit like a plant reaching for the sun – just trying to soak it all in. There's a particular kind of busy that June brings, a humming vibrancy, but also a call to simplicity. My kitchen, much like my mind, tends to crave less fuss and more freshness when the temperature rises. I’m certainly not one for overly complicated productions, especially after a day of navigating the world.

That's where this recipe steps in. It’s a little prayer answered on a plate, honestly. Light, bright, and wonderfully satisfying without weighing you down. It feels like a small act of kindness to myself, and perhaps to anyone else I'm sharing a meal with, to put something so genuinely good on the table. There's a particular peace in the aroma of something simple grilling, like a little grace note in the evening air.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick
• Mixed greens for serving

Instructions

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prep the rest.
2. Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. If using skewers, thread the shrimp onto them (this makes flipping easier).
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them; they cook quickly! Remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. If you like a bit of warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes here.
6. Pour the dressing over the mango mixture and mix carefully to combine.
7. Arrange a bed of mixed greens on plates. Top with the grilled shrimp and then spoon the mango salad generously over the shrimp.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy the lovely burst of flavors. It’s a simple pleasure, really.

Sometimes, the greatest gifts are the ones that require the least fanfare – a sunny day, a good book, or a meal that just makes you feel nourished, body and spirit. This salad, with its sweet mango and savory shrimp, feels like exactly that. It doesn't ask for much, but it gives back in flavor and a deep feeling of contentment.

As the days continue in this vibrant season, I find myself thinking about what truly refreshes us. It’s not always about grand gestures, but often in the small, consistent acts of care and gratitude. Finding these simple joys, these moments to pause and appreciate, feels like a good way to live, doesn't it?

What simple, refreshing meals are bringing you joy this season, or what small blessings are you noticing in the everyday?

---

Photo by nrd (@ndetito)

Looking for the perfect gift (or a treat for yourself)?

Check out our unique table runners, oven mitts, and other home decor in the ArtInScienceDesigns Etsy shop. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!

AND... Follow Me on CF

#recipes #fordinner #simple #lifestyle #etsy #7propertiesga #artinsciencedesigns #homedecor #kitchendecor #thanksgiving