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Fresh Healthy Shrimp Avocado Salad

shrimp avocado salad - featured image

A quick, easy, and nutritious salad combining lightly sautéed shrimp with creamy avocado and fresh vegetables, dressed in a zesty lime and garlic dressing. Perfect for a light meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 2 ripe but firm avocados, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika if using.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add shrimp in a single layer without crowding the pan.
  3. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside to cool.
  4. Dice avocados, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop red onion and cilantro. Soak onion in cold water for 10 minutes if a milder flavor is desired, then drain.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. In a mixing bowl, gently combine shrimp, avocado, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
  7. Pour dressing over salad and toss carefully to coat without mashing the avocado.
  8. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve fresh.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Toss avocado gently to avoid mashing. To keep avocado from browning, toss with lime juice and add just before serving. If prepping ahead, keep avocado separate until serving. Optional spices like cayenne or smoked paprika add subtle warmth. Variations include adding jalapeño for spice or swapping shrimp for grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp salad, avocado salad, healthy salad, quick salad, light meal, nutritious meal, easy recipe, gluten-free, low-carb, paleo-friendly