Zesty Shrimp & Avocado Salad Recipe That Dazzles Every Time

My recent obsession with this zesty shrimp & avocado salad emerged during a blazing summer afternoon.

Ocean-fresh prawns pair beautifully with creamy avocado chunks for an incredible light meal.

Crisp vegetables add vibrant color and unexpected crunch to each refreshing bite.

Mediterranean herbs whisper subtle complexity through the dish’s delicate layers.

Quick preparation means you can assemble this delectable combination in minutes.

Green and pink ingredients create a stunning visual contrast that promises deliciousness.

Summer lunches deserve something spectacular like this protein-packed, cool culinary creation – dive in and savor every delightful forkful!

Shrimp And Avocado Salad That’s Fresh And Filling

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up this delightful shrimp and avocado salad in just minutes with minimal cooking skills required.
• Protein-Packed Powerhouse: Loaded with lean shrimp and creamy avocado, this dish delivers a nutritious and satisfying meal that keeps you full.
• Versatile Summer Favorite: Perfect for hot days, picnics, or light lunches, this refreshing salad adapts effortlessly to different occasions and eating styles.
• No-Fuss Flavor Explosion: The zesty lime dressing and fresh ingredients create a mouthwatering combination that tastes gourmet but takes minimal effort to prepare.

What Tops Shrimp and Avocado Salad

• Mayonnaise: Creamy base that binds the salad together, rich and smooth.
• Lime Juice: Bright citrus that adds tangy freshness and helps prevent avocado browning.
• Dill: Fresh herb bringing a light, aromatic flavor to the dressing.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced taste.

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood protein, best when fresh or properly thawed.
• Avocado: Creamy, nutrient-dense fruit that adds richness and smooth texture.

• Red Onion: Sharp, crisp vegetable for added crunch and zesty flavor.
• Chili Flakes: Optional spicy element for those who enjoy heat and extra kick.

Shrimp & Avocado Salad Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Whip Up Zesty Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, blend mayonnaise with freshly squeezed lime juice.

Sprinkle in fragrant dill, then add a pinch of salt and a dash of ground black pepper.

Stir until the ingredients form a smooth, creamy mixture.

Step 2: Verify Flavor Profile

Sample the dressing and fine-tune the seasoning to match your taste preferences.

Add extra lime juice for tanginess or more pepper for kick.

Step 3: Prepare Seafood and Creamy Fruit

Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried with paper towels.

Slice ripe avocados into appealing bite-sized cubes, maintaining a consistent size for even distribution.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Transfer the prepared shrimp and avocado chunks into a spacious serving bowl.

Use a gentle folding technique to mix the ingredients without breaking the delicate avocado pieces.

Step 5: Dress and Blend

Pour the previously prepared zesty dressing over the shrimp and avocado.

Carefully fold the mixture until every morsel is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

• Thinly sliced red onion rings
• Sprinkled chili flakes for heat

Serve chilled for a refreshing and light meal perfect for warm days.

Shrimp Salad Tips With Creamy Avocado

• Pat shrimp completely dry to avoid excess moisture that can make the salad soggy.
• Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to create a harmonious blend of lime, dill, and creamy mayonnaise.
• Dice avocados just before mixing to prevent browning and maintain their vibrant green color.
• Fold ingredients softly to keep shrimp and avocado chunks intact without breaking them apart.
• Refrigerate the salad for 15-30 minutes to let flavors meld and create a more refreshing dish.

Shrimp Avocado Salad That Maintains Its Fresh Feel

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shrimp and avocado are delicate, so consume quickly for the best flavor and texture.
• Cover the salad surface with plastic wrap directly touching the ingredients to minimize avocado oxidation and maintain freshness.
• If possible, keep dressing separate from salad components to prevent sogginess and maintain crisp textures when storing.
• Avoid microwaving this salad, as shrimp can become rubbery and avocado will lose its creamy consistency. Enjoy cold for best results.

What Goes With Shrimp Avocado Salad

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio that complements the shrimp's delicate flavor and cuts through the creamy avocado dressing.
• Match with Light Summer Bread: Serve alongside toasted ciabatta or sourdough crostini to add a crunchy texture that balances the soft salad ingredients.
• Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or chives on top to boost the salad's brightness and introduce an extra layer of herbal freshness.
• Create Citrus Contrast: Add a small side of grilled lemon wedges to squeeze over the salad, intensifying the lime dressing and bringing out the shrimp's natural sweetness.

Shrimp Salad Mix-Ins

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for lower carbs. Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains as a base.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh cubes. Use vegan mayonnaise and add extra herbs like cilantro for flavor depth.
• Zesty Mediterranean Spin: Incorporate diced cucumber, feta cheese, and kalamata olives. Replace dill with fresh oregano and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and replace lime juice with fresh orange juice. Sprinkle with cumin and smoked paprika for a bold kick.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely, pat dry with paper towels, and ensure they’re well-drained before adding to the salad.

• How do I know if my shrimp is cooked properly?

Shrimp turn pink and curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked. They should look opaque and have a slight curve, not a tight spiral, which indicates overcooking.

• Is this salad healthy?

Absolutely! Shrimp are high in protein and low in calories, while avocados provide healthy fats, making this a nutritious and balanced dish.

• Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare components separately and combine just before serving to prevent avocados from browning.

Shrimp & Avocado Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Refreshing Mexican-inspired shrimp & avocado salad brings zesty coastal flavors to your summer table. Crisp greens mingle with succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy citrus dressing, promising a light and satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

Produce:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped dill (or cilantro)
• Optional: Thinly sliced red onion

Seasoning and Dressing:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Pinch of chili flakes

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty dressing by vigorously whisking mayonnaise with freshly squeezed lime juice, finely chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Meticulously sample the dressing, fine-tuning the seasoning to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
3. Thoroughly pat the shrimp dry to ensure optimal texture and prevent excess moisture.
4. Carefully dice ripe avocados into uniform, bite-sized cubes that will complement the shrimp.
5. Transfer the prepared shrimp and avocado into a spacious mixing bowl, handling them gently to maintain their delicate structure.
6. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the seafood and avocado, then delicately fold the mixture to ensure each morsel is evenly and generously coated.
7. For an optional flavor enhancement, scatter thinly sliced red onion or sprinkle chili flakes across the top of the salad.
8. Serve the salad immediately while ingredients are fresh and crisp, or refrigerate briefly to create a refreshingly cool dish perfect for warm days.

Notes

• Choose freshly cooked or chilled shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this light summer dish.
• Pat shrimp completely dry to prevent watery dressing and ensure crisp salad consistency.
• Use ripe but firm avocados that hold their shape when diced to maintain salad structure.
• Mix dressing separately and taste before adding to control seasoning intensity and prevent over-dressing.
• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich alternative that adds tangy complexity.
• Add extra crunch by incorporating diced cucumber or toasted pine nuts for textural contrast.
• Prepare just before serving to keep avocados bright green and prevent browning.
• For low-carb diets, serve over mixed greens or butter lettuce instead of traditional sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg