Ingredients and preparation
This refreshing shrimp and avocado salad combines tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables for a light yet satisfying dish. Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process.
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for heat
Preparation steps:
- Prepare the shrimp: Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice the avocados and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If using jalapeño, finely chop it. Chop the cilantro just before assembling to preserve its freshness.
With all ingredients prepped and ready, you’re set to move on to assembling the salad.
Cooking and assembling the salad
Begin by placing the cooked and cooled shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. If you’re using jalapeño for a bit of heat, add it now along with the freshly chopped cilantro.
Gently toss the ingredients together using a large spoon or silicone spatula, being careful not to mash the avocado. The goal is to evenly distribute the components while maintaining their individual textures and shapes.
Drizzle the prepared lime-honey dressing over the salad. Start with about two-thirds of the dressing and toss gently to coat. Taste and add more dressing if desired, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. This brief resting time enhances the brightness of the lime and the sweetness of the honey, while allowing the shrimp to absorb the dressing.
For best results, serve the salad slightly chilled or at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating for too long after assembling, as the avocado may begin to brown and the vegetables can lose their crispness.
Serving suggestions and variations
This shrimp and avocado salad is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions and preferences. For a light lunch or appetizer, serve it on a bed of mixed greens or butter lettuce leaves. The greens add extra crunch and freshness, and they help balance the richness of the avocado and shrimp.
For a more substantial meal, consider spooning the salad into halved avocados or hollowed-out tomatoes for an elegant presentation. You can also serve it over cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to add a hearty grain component, making it a complete and satisfying dish.
If you’re entertaining, serve the salad in small cups or on endive leaves for a bite-sized, finger-food option. This makes for a colorful and refreshing hors d’oeuvre that’s easy to prepare ahead of time and serve at room temperature.
To add a twist, try incorporating different herbs such as fresh basil or mint in place of cilantro. You can also swap the lime juice for lemon juice or even a splash of orange juice for a citrusy variation. For a Mediterranean flair, add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives, or for a tropical version, mix in diced mango or pineapple.
For those who enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño or substitute with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Alternatively, a drizzle of sriracha or a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the spice level without overpowering the other flavors.
Whether served as a light starter, a main course, or a party appetizer, this salad adapts beautifully to different settings and tastes, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.