Shrimp Avocado Salad Recipe

This Shrimp Avocado Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Packed with protein-rich shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables like Roma tomatoes, cucumbers, and corn, and topped with a zesty cilantro lemon dressing, this salad is both light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb, keto-friendly, or gluten-free recipe, this salad fits the bill. The Cajun-spiced shrimp adds the perfect amount of heat, while the tangy dressing brings everything together. Quick and easy to prepare, this vibrant shrimp salad is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for meal prep, a summer picnic, or a delicious weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

For the Chopped Salad:

• 1/2 lb (3 to 4 medium) Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 English cucumber (or 3 smaller garden cucumbers), sliced
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1 cup corn kernels (from 2 fresh cobs or canned, drained)
• 1 medium romaine lettuce (5 to 6 cups chopped)

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tsp Cajun spice
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• Pinch of salt

For the Zesty Cilantro Lemon Dressing:

• 3 Tbsp olive oil (mild or extra virgin)
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 Tbsp, lime juice is an option)
• 1/2 bunch cilantro (about 1/2 cup chopped)
• 1 tsp sea salt (or 3/4 tsp table salt)
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with 1 tsp Cajun spice, 2 pressed garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 Tbsp butter and let it melt until it stops sizzling.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer and sauté for about 2 minutes without disturbing. Flip the shrimp and cook for another minute or until just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook to avoid rubbery shrimp. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.
4. Wash, chop, and spin dry the romaine lettuce. Arrange 5 to 6 cups of chopped lettuce at the bottom of a large salad platter or bowl.
5. Layer the remaining salad ingredients—tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, corn, and shrimp—on top of the lettuce.
6. For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips

• If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more Cajun spice to the shrimp.
• You can also prepare the salad ingredients and dressing in advance, but it’s best to add the shrimp and dressing right before serving to maintain freshness.
• To make the salad even more refreshing, chill the vegetables before assembling.

Variations and Substitutions

• For a twist on the dressing, you could substitute lime juice for lemon or add a bit of honey for sweetness.
• If you prefer a different protein, grilled chicken or salmon would be great alternatives to shrimp.
• Try swapping the corn for black beans for a different texture and flavor.
• If you’re avoiding dairy, make sure the butter used for cooking shrimp is dairy-free, or swap it for olive oil.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?
You can cook the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just add them to the salad when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of romaine lettuce?
Other leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens can also work well in this salad.

Serving Suggestions

• This salad is perfect on its own as a light lunch or dinner.
• It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a crispy baguette.
• Serve with a refreshing white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Avocado Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and perfectly spiced Cajun shrimp. The zesty cilantro lemon dressing brings everything together with a burst of flavor, making it a satisfying and healthy meal. Plus, it’s quick to make, light, and full of nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed!