Shrimp Avocado Salad

Shrimp Avocado Salad

Light, Zesty & Protein-Packed – Perfect for Summer Meals!

This Shrimp Avocado Salad is a fresh, nutrient-rich dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It combines tender, juicy shrimp with creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s light but satisfying, packed with protein and healthy fats, and comes together in under 20 minutes. Serve it solo, with crusty bread, or over leafy greens or quinoa for a complete Mediterranean-style meal.

Time & Servings:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5–7 minutes

Total Time: 15–20 minutes

Servings: 2–3 (as a main) or 4 (as a side)

Ingredients

For the Salad:

½ lb (225g) cooked shrimp,

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder or 2 garlic cloves (minced)

1 large avocado, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cucumber, diced

¼ cup red onion, finely sliced

2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Optional: 1 cup mixed greens or arugula for serving

For the Lime Dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil

Juice of 1 lime (or lemon)

½ tsp honey or maple syrup

Salt & pepper to taste

Optional: pinch of chili flakes or paprika

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp:

Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Salad Base:

In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).

Toss & Serve:

Add the cooked shrimp to the salad bowl.

Pour the dressing over and gently toss everything together.

Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy alone, over greens, or wrapped in lettuce cups!

Tips for Success

Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp:
Fresh shrimp offers the best texture, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) works well too.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:
Shrimp cooks quickly—once it turns pink and opaque, remove it from heat to avoid rubbery texture.

Ripe Avocado Matters:
Use a ripe but firm avocado to keep its shape when tossed. Add it at the end to avoid mashing.

Chill Before Serving:
Let the salad chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and keep it refreshing.

Meal Prep Tip:
If prepping in advance, keep avocado and dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid browning and sogginess.

Variations

Mediterranean Style:
Add crumbled feta, kalamata olives, and a pinch of oregano. Swap lime for lemon juice in the dressing.

Spicy Kick:
Add minced jalapeño, chili flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for heat lovers.

Tropical Twist:
Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and savory contrast.

Greens-Based Bowl:
Serve the salad over arugula, baby spinach, or romaine for a refreshing shrimp salad bowl.

Grain Bowl Version:
Add cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a more filling, high-protein meal.

Creamy Dressing Swap:
Instead of lime vinaigrette, try a light Greek yogurt and garlic dressing for a creamy twist.

Grilled Option:
Grill the shrimp for added smoky flavor—perfect for BBQs and outdoor meals.

Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes! Just make sure it’s thawed and dry before adding to the salad. For extra flavor, you can lightly sear it in a pan with olive oil and garlic.

Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
A: It’s best eaten fresh. If stored, it can last up to 1 day in an airtight container. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Q: Can I make it ahead for lunch prep?
A: Yes! Prep and store the salad without avocado and dressing. Add both just before eating to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Q: What can I use instead of lime juice?
A: Lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar will work as a tangy alternative.

Q: Is this salad keto or low-carb?
A: Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein – great for keto and low-carb diets.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)

Note: Values are estimated and may vary with portion size or ingredient brands.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Avocado Salad is a quick and refreshing way to enjoy clean, wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp veggies come together in a bright lime dressing for a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. It’s light enough for warm-weather lunches, filling enough for dinner, and versatile enough for meal prep or entertaining.

Whether you’re craving a zesty salad, a low-carb protein bowl, or a Mediterranean-inspired light meal, this recipe will easily become a favorite in your healthy kitchen rotation.