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Fresh Shrimp Avocado Salad with Easy Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing

fresh shrimp avocado salad - featured image

A quick and easy fresh shrimp avocado salad tossed with a zesty cilantro lime vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or dinners. This vibrant salad combines creamy avocado, tender shrimp, and bright citrus flavors for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice sear. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, honey, and chopped cilantro. Whisk or shake well while slowly drizzling in the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix.
  5. Gently fold the diced avocado and cooked shrimp into the salad mixture, taking care not to mash the avocado.
  6. Pour the cilantro lime vinaigrette over the salad and toss lightly to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lime juice if needed.
  7. Transfer to plates or bowls and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges.

Notes

To prevent avocado browning, toss diced avocado with lime juice just before adding to the salad. Keep dressing and avocado separate if prepping ahead. Avoid overcooking shrimp to maintain tenderness. Grilled shrimp can be used for a smoky flavor. Dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and shaken before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp salad, avocado salad, cilantro lime dressing, quick salad, healthy dinner, light lunch, gluten-free, low-carb