Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with the creamy richness of avocado.
This salad is perfect for warm days or light lunches, making it a fantastic choice for picnics, beach outings, or quick weeknight dinners. The marriage of succulent shrimp and buttery avocado is complemented by a tangy dressing, making each bite a burst of flavor.
This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and low in calories, while avocados provide healthy fats and various vitamins.
Fresh vegetables add crunch and color, making this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or romaine)
- 1 lime, juiced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a boil and season it with salt. Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Once cooked, drain the shrimp and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain again and set aside to cool.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss again to ensure all ingredients are coated.
Serve:
Arrange a bed of mixed salad greens on a large platter or individual plates. Top with the shrimp and avocado mixture.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.
Chef’s Note:
This Shrimp and Avocado Salad is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients like diced mango for a tropical twist or sliced bell peppers for extra crunch. You can also swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
If you prefer your shrimp with a little extra flavor, consider marinating them in lime juice, garlic, and spices for about 30 minutes before cooking. This adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 35% of DV
- Calcium: 4% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV
Shrimp and Avocado Salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Shrimp provide high-quality protein and essential minerals like selenium and vitamin B12, while avocados contribute healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The fresh vegetables add a wealth of vitamins and fiber, making this salad a well-rounded choice for any meal.
As you prepare and enjoy this Shrimp and Avocado Salad, take a moment to appreciate the harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables creates a delightful dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or as a starter for dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and the health benefits this dish brings to your table!
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