Avocado and Shrimp Salad

Table of Contents

Avocado Obsession: How I Paired It with My Love for Shrimp

This Avocado and Shrimp Salad brings together two things I absolutely love - fresh seafood and avocado. Growing up, we didn’t have avocado on our table, so it’s a fairly new addition to my diet, but now we can’t get enough of it! Whether it’s on toast, like my Fresh Dill and Avocado Toast, or in salads like Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad and Asparagus and Avocado Salad, avocado seems to sneak its way into everything. I’ve even added it to my Asparagus and Egg Breakfast Tacos - t’s so versatile!

Paired with shrimp, which is a favourite seafood in our home, this salad is light, fresh, and perfect for a quick meal. The creamy avocado, zesty lime, and smoky paprika on the shrimp make this salad both refreshing and satisfying. It's just another way to enjoy the foods we love, and honestly, I can never have enough avocado!

Best,

Ana

Ingredients for Avocado and Shrimp Salad

Shrimp: Large, tender shrimp add a light, protein-packed bite to the salad, with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Avocados: Creamy and rich, avocados provide healthy fats and a smooth texture that complements the shrimp and veggies.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and slightly sweet, cherry tomatoes bring a burst of color and freshness to the salad.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion adds a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the avocado.
Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber adds a crunchy texture and cooling contrast to the other ingredients.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a bright, herbal note that enhances the overall freshness of the salad.
Olive Oil: A smooth, healthy fat that ties all the ingredients together, giving the salad a light and satisfying richness.
Lime Juice: Provides a zesty, tangy flavor that brightens the dish and balances the richness of the avocado and shrimp.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth to the shrimp, giving them an extra layer of flavor.
Honey or Agave Nectar: Brings a touch of sweetness to the dressing, balancing out the acidity from the lime juice.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.

Dressing:

Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, adding smoothness and richness to the salad.
Lime Juice: A zesty element that brightens the flavors and ties everything together.
Garlic: Adds a savory, aromatic note to the dressing, giving it a robust flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: Finishing seasonings that bring balance and elevate the flavors of the dressing.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.

How do I prevent the avocados from browning?

To keep the avocados from browning, you can toss them in a little extra lime juice before mixing them into the salad. The acidity helps slow down oxidation.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare this salad fresh, as the avocado may brown and the shrimp might lose some of their texture. However, you can prepare the shrimp, vegetables, and dressing separately and assemble just before serving.

What can I substitute for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley, basil, or even arugula for a different flavor twist.

How long will leftovers keep?

Avocado and Shrimp Salad is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly.

How to Make Avocado and Shrimp Salad

Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the Salad: n a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, honey or agave nectar (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve: Divide the salad among four plates or serve it in a large bowl. Enjoy immediately as a light and refreshing meal.
Dobar tek!

What to Serve with Avocado and Shrimp Salad

This Avocado and Shrimp Salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for what you can serve alongside it:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful dressing and adding a bit of crunch to the meal.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers and onions for a hearty, healthy side that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
Quinoa or Couscous: A small side of quinoa or couscous adds extra texture and makes the meal more filling without overpowering the lightness of the salad.
Tortilla Chips: For a fun twist, serve with crispy tortilla chips, perfect for scooping up the avocado and shrimp mixture like a dip.
Garlic Bread: Garlic bread brings a savory touch that pairs well with the tangy lime dressing and fresh ingredients in the salad.
Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf or herbed rice adds a mild, starchy side that complements the bold flavors of the salad without overwhelming them.

Recipe Variations

Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Add diced mango to the salad for a sweet and tropical twist. The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the shrimp and avocado, and the lime dressing enhances the fresh flavors.
Avocado and Shrimp Salad with Feta Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy, creamy element. The feta adds a sharp contrast to the creamy avocado and tender shrimp, making the salad more savory and hearty.
Spicy Avocado Shrimp Salad For a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. This gives the salad a spicy kick that pairs well with the coolness of the avocado and shrimp.
Mediterranean Avocado Shrimp Salad Add sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of oregano to give the salad a Mediterranean vibe. You can also swap the lime juice for lemon juice in the dressing for a more Mediterranean flavor.

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Salad Instead of cooking the shrimp in a skillet, grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor. Grilled shrimp adds a wonderful, charred taste that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Ana

This Avocado and Shrimp Salad is a delightful combination of creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with flavors and nutrients.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 20

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Global

Servings

Ingredients

For the salad:

450 g large shrimp peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika or to taste
salt to taste
black pepper to taste
2 ripe avocados diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1/2 red onion finely chopped
1 cucumber diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped

For the dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey or agave nectar optional
1 clove garlic minced
salt to taste
black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the Salad: n a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, honey or agave nectar (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve: Divide the salad among four plates or serve it in a large bowl. Enjoy immediately as a light and refreshing meal.
Dobar tek!

Keyword bbq, entertaining, family meal, kid-friendly, party food, picnic, summer

For the Curious Foodie

The Power of Avocado:

Avocados are known for being a nutrient powerhouse. Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, they’re excellent for heart health. They also provide a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. In this salad, their creamy texture pairs perfectly with the light and fresh shrimp, balancing the flavors.

Why Cilantro and Lime?

Cilantro and lime are classic flavor pairings often found in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. The bright, citrusy notes of lime enhance the richness of the avocado, while cilantro adds a fresh, herbal contrast. Together, they create a vibrant flavor profile that keeps this salad light and refreshing.

Shrimp: A Protein Powerhouse:

Shrimp is an excellent low-calorie source of protein, rich in vitamins like B12 and minerals like selenium, which support immune function. It's a versatile seafood option that cooks quickly and easily absorbs the flavors of spices like smoked paprika.

Why Smoked Paprika?

Smoked paprika gives the shrimp a subtle smokiness and depth, making this salad extra special. Originating from Spain, smoked paprika is made by drying peppers over a fire, giving it that distinct earthy and slightly sweet flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the shrimp and the freshness of the salad.

Healthy and Flavourful Dressing:

The dressing combines olive oil, lime juice, and a hint of honey or agave nectar for a sweet-tart balance. Olive oil is loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats, while lime juice provides a tangy kick that brightens the salad. Adding honey brings a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the lime.

This salad combines a variety of textures and flavors, making it not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious - perfect for those curious about the health benefits of each ingredient!

Author

Ana

Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.
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