Bright, juicy shrimp paired with creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a zesty lime dressing.
Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 2–3 as a main, 4 as a side
This shrimp and avocado salad is light but satisfying, loaded with flavor and texture. Plump, pan-seared shrimp meet creamy avocado, crunchy romaine, and a mix of onions and fresh herbs. Tossed in a lime-based dressing with a touch of heat, this salad is perfect for a summer lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1/2 pound (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 avocado, sliced
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1 1/2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
For the Dressing:
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2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon honey or agave
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small clove garlic, minced
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Pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Shrimp
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Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through.
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Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad
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In a large bowl or platter, layer the shredded lettuce, avocado slices, and chopped red onion.
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Add the cooked shrimp and drizzle the dressing evenly over the top.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and extra cracked pepper.
Tips and Variations
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Use pre-cooked shrimp to make this even faster.
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Add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or mango for more color and flavor.
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Swap lime for lemon if that’s what you have on hand.
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To make it a full meal, serve over rice, quinoa, or in a tortilla as a wrap.
Final Thoughts
This shrimp and avocado salad checks all the boxes: it’s refreshing, quick, and packed with clean, bold flavors. The balance of citrusy tang, creamy avocado, and savory shrimp makes it ideal for warm days or when you want something light but satisfying. It’s a go-to salad that feels special without taking much time at all.