Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Avocado Salad is a light, refreshing, and healthy dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering. The blend of textures and flavors makes it both satisfying and vibrant.
ingredients
- Shrimp
- Avocados
- Romaine lettuce
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh cilantro
directions
- Cook the shrimp by boiling or grilling them until pink and opaque. Set aside to cool.
- While the shrimp cool, chop the lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, avocado, vegetables, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add a handful of mixed greens for extra crunch.
- For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Include a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for added creaminess.
storage/reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately (dressing, shrimp, and veggies) to prevent sogginess. Keep the dressing in an airtight container and the salad in a separate container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Do not freeze.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
What dressing can I use besides lime and olive oil?
A light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing, like ranch or Caesar, can also work well with this salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Shrimp Avocado Salad is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Shrimp Avocado Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines fresh ingredients, protein-packed shrimp, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a light meal or a side dish, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it as is, or get creative with your favorite add-ins!
PrintShrimp Avocado Salad
A light, refreshing salad featuring succulent shrimp and creamy avocado, perfect for a healthy meal or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a kick)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, diced avocado, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For added crunch, top the salad with tortilla chips or roasted pumpkin seeds.
- For a more filling meal, add some mixed greens or quinoa to the salad.
- If making ahead, store dressing separately and toss just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- For a more citrusy flavor, add orange segments or grapefruit to the salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg