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Shrimp Avocado Salad

Shrimp Avocado Salad - Fresh, Bright, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large; cooked or raw)
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1 English cucumber, diced (or 2 Persian cucumbers)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional if you’re not a fan)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, especially good if cooking the shrimp)
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for sautéing shrimp (if using raw)
  • Mixed greens or butter lettuce (optional, for serving)
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prep the shrimp: If using cooked shrimp, pat them dry and set aside. If using raw, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat a skillet over medium-high, add butter or oil, and cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust acidity or sweetness to taste. You want a bright, slightly tangy balance.
  • Chop the vegetables: Dice the avocado and cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and slice the red onion thin. If using jalapeño, mince it very fine. Chop cilantro.
  • Toss the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing and toss gently to coat.
  • Add shrimp and avocado: Fold in the cooled shrimp and the diced avocado. Add the remaining dressing and toss carefully so the avocado holds its shape.
  • Taste and adjust: Add a pinch more salt, a squeeze of lime, or a grind of pepper if needed. The flavors should be bright and clean.
  • Serve: Spoon over mixed greens or butter lettuce, or serve as-is with lime wedges on the side. Eat right away for the best texture.