Easy & Healthy Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe – Light

If you are looking for a refreshing, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish, this Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender, succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a zesty, homemade dressing. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh flavors, this salad is great for a light lunch, a wholesome dinner, or even a delicious appetizer. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet, love seafood, or just want something healthy yet satisfying, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fats: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Sugars: 2g

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
• Course: Salad, Main Course
• Servings: 4

Equipment Needed:

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Skillet or grill pan
• Tongs
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan variation)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle a little olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and avocado.
2. Add the cooked shrimp and gently toss everything together.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve immediately or let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Enjoy as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled bread for a heartier meal.

Tips & Variations:

• Grilled Shrimp Option: Instead of cooking the shrimp on a skillet, grill them for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the dressing.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture.
• Dairy-Free & Keto: Skip the honey or use a sugar-free sweetener for a keto-friendly version.
• Protein Boost: Add crumbled feta cheese or boiled eggs for extra protein.

Storage & Meal Prep:

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• If meal-prepping, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion:

This Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe is a fantastic blend of freshness, nutrition, and flavor. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re following a healthy diet, need a quick meal, or want to impress guests with a gourmet-style dish, this salad is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously healthy meal!