If you’re craving something light and refreshing, this Shrimp Avocado Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing is a perfect choice. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables brings a delightful mix of textures. The lime dressing adds a tangy kick, making each bite a burst of flavor.
This salad is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a simple dinner, it’s a dish that celebrates fresh ingredients in the most delicious way.
Steps
- Begin by boiling a pot of water and then reduce the heat to medium. Place the shrimp in a steamer insert or mesh strainer over the boiling water and cover with a lid. Steam for 4-6 minutes until the shrimp are pink and curled, then remove them to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Make sure the mixture is well emulsified.
- Add the cooled shrimp to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in shredded lettuce and diced red onion, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Arrange sliced avocados around the shrimp in the salad and garnish with chopped cilantro. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best flavor, consume within 24 hours as avocados may brown.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, thawed
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- ¼ red onion, diced
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Dressing: Juice of 1 lime
- Dressing: ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Dressing: Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1452kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 100g | Fat: 104g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 72g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 732mg | Sodium: 1752mg | Potassium: 3496mg | Fiber: 28g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1392IU | Vitamin C: 60mg | Calcium: 400mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare this Shrimp Avocado Salad in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the salad up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy. The dressing itself can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Is this Shrimp Avocado Salad a healthy option?
- This salad is a nutritious choice, being low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Each serving contains approximately 360 calories, making it a great option for a balanced meal. It’s also excellent as an appetizer when served in lettuce leaves.
- What are some alternative ingredients I can use if I don’t have all the items?
- If you’re not a fan of red onions, you can substitute them with green onions or omit them entirely. Additionally, if you prefer to avoid cumin in the dressing, you can use paprika or coriander instead for a different flavor profile.
- How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
- Leftover salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 24 hours. While it can last up to two days, avocados may start to brown after the first day.
- What is the best way to cook the shrimp for this salad?
- The shrimp can be steamed, sautéed, or grilled. If steaming, use a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-6 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque. Alternatively, you can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
Tips
- Opt for ripe yet firm avocados to maintain the best texture in your salad. If they’re too soft, they’ll be difficult to slice neatly, and if they’re too firm, they’ll be challenging to peel.
- Save time by using pre-cooked shrimp or consider preparing fresh shrimp that isn’t frozen to expedite the process.
- Dice the red onion into smaller pieces to prevent its flavor from overwhelming the salad. If you’re not keen on red onions, consider substituting with green onions for a milder taste.
- Prepare the dressing in advance, up to two weeks ahead, to streamline the salad assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Equipment
- Steamer Basket – Useful for steaming the shrimp over a pot of boiling water.
- Mesh Strainer – Can be used as an alternative to a steamer basket to steam the shrimp.
- Large Mixing Bowl – Needed for mixing the salad ingredients and dressing together.
