CREAMY AVOCADO AND SHRIMP SALAD
Creamy Avocado and Shrimp Salad is a fresh, flavourful dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy avocado and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in zesty lemon juice. This light yet satisfying salad is rich in healthy fats, proteins and essential nutrients, making it perfect for a nutritious meal. The shrimp provide a lean protein boost, while the avocado adds a smooth, buttery texture that balances the natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. Add salt and black pepper for taste. This dish is quick to prepare and can be served as a light lunch, appetiser or side dish. It pairs well with a variety of dressings, from classic lemon vinaigrettes to creamy yoghurt-based sauces. Whether enjoyed on its own, over leafy greens or in a wrap, this salad is a refreshing and versatile option that works for any time of the day. Perfect for meal prep or an easy, healthy meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Salad, Appetiser, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, No-Cook, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Spring, Family Dinner, Meal Prep, Light Lunch, Picnic, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten-Free, Healthy, Quick and Easy
DISH TYPE
Salad, Seafood Dish
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Creamy Avocado and Shrimp Salad:
- 80g shrimp, peeled and cooked
- ¼ avocado, diced
- 10g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander, diced cucumber, red onion or crumbled feta (Optional add-ins)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fibre: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 120mg
PREPARATION
- Cook the shrimp: If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and let cool. If using pre-cooked shrimp, rinse and pat dry.
- Prepare the avocado: Dice the avocado into bite-sized cubes and place in a mixing bowl.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl.
- Combine ingredients: Add the shrimp to the bowl, drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy as a standalone salad, on a bed of greens or as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
3 minutes (if cooking shrimp)
TIPS
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp yield the best texture and flavour.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Choose ripe avocado: A soft but firm avocado adds the perfect creamy texture to the salad.
- Customise the seasoning: A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can enhance the dish’s depth.
- Make it a meal: Serve over quinoa, brown rice or whole-grain toast for a heartier option.
VARIATIONS
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Dairy boost: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan for extra richness.
- Add crunch: Toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds or crushed nuts.
- Mediterranean twist: Include olives, cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Make it creamy: Stir in Greek yoghurt or a spoonful of hummus for a richer consistency.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as avocado loses its texture when thawed.
- Make-ahead tip: Cook shrimp in advance and store them separately. Add avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.