Dive into the refreshing world of seafood with this Shrimp and Avocado Salad. A perfect blend of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a medley of crisp vegetables, all tossed in a light and zesty dressing. It's a delightful salad that's not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for a light lunch or as an elegant appetizer.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Ingredients
- 400 grams (14 ounces) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 handful cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup for sweetness
Method of Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, remaining olive oil, and honey or agave syrup, if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooled shrimp to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a short time before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut the vegetables and avocado in uniform sizes for even distribution in each serving.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and seasoning according to your taste preferences.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad? Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and drained before cooking.
- How can I store leftovers? Best consumed fresh, but you can refrigerate for up to one day. Note that avocado may brown.
- Can I add other ingredients to this salad? Absolutely! Consider adding mango, bell peppers, or lettuce for extra flavor and texture.