Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The contrast of the cool, creamy avocado with the succulent shrimp and the crunch of the red onion creates a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and filling. Additionally, with the option to add jalapeño, you can customize the heat level to your liking. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy, light meal, this salad will surely impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked, peeled, and chopped jumbo shrimp
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- 1 diced tomato
- 1 diced avocado
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for a spicy kick)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If your shrimp are not already chopped, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the tomato, avocado, and red onion, ensuring everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This dressing will be the star of the salad, bringing all the flavors together.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, red onion, diced tomato, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. This colorful mixture is not only appealing but also packed with nutrients.
Step 4: Pour the Dressing
Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This brief resting time enhances the taste. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a heartier meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. Pair it with tortilla chips for a crunchy side, or serve it alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete dinner. It also makes a great filling for tacos or wraps.
Tips:
- For the freshest flavor, use ripe avocados and freshly squeezed lime juice.
- If you prefer a milder salad, omit the jalapeño or use only a small amount.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The avocado may brown slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious.
- Experiment with adding other ingredients such as corn, black beans, or diced mango for a unique twist.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion
The Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a fantastic dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. With its bright flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this salad will satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and refreshing. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping and adding to the salad. - How can I make this salad more filling?
To make it more filling, consider adding ingredients like quinoa, brown rice, or black beans. These additions will provide extra fiber and protein. - What if I don’t like cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley or omit it entirely. The salad will still taste great! - Can I prepare this salad in advance?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and mix them just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning. - Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be part of a meal prep plan. Just store the ingredients separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat for the best freshness.
