Zesty Lime Shrimp & Avocado Salad

A vibrant, refreshing salad bursting with citrusy shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a punchy lime dressing. Perfect for summer lunches, light dinners, or a healthy meal prep option.

📝 Description

This salad combines succulent lime-marinated shrimp with ripe avocado, crunchy cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs—all tossed in a bright, zesty lime dressing. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and comes together in under 20 minutes for a satisfying, nourishing meal.

🧾 Ingredients for Zesty Lime Shrimp & Avocado Salad 

500 g shrimp (peeled & deveined)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

• 1 large avocado, diced

• 1 cup cucumber, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (or parsley), chopped

• 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped (optional base)

Lime Dressing:

• 3 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp honey or agave (optional)

• ½ tsp cumin powder

• Salt & pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp:

   • Pat shrimp dry, season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium-high. Add garlic, sauté 30 sec.

   • Add shrimp and cook 2–3 min per side until pink & opaque. Let cool.

2. Make Dressing:

   • Whisk lime juice, olive oil, cumin, honey, salt & pepper in a small bowl.

3. Assemble Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.

   • Add cooled shrimp.

   • Drizzle dressing over top and toss gently to coat.

4. Serve:

   • Plate over lettuce (if using) and enjoy immediately!

🍽️ Servings

Makes 2–3 main-dish salads or 4 side-dish portions

💡 Notes

• Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time—just thaw & toss in lime dressing.

• Avocado browns fast; cut it last or add extra lime juice over it.

• Spice lover? Add jalapeño slices or extra chili flakes.

• Swap cilantro with parsley if you’re not a fan of the flavor.

🔧 Tips

• Meal prep: Keep shrimp, salad veggies, and dressing separate. Combine right before eating.

• Keto-friendly: Skip honey for zero added sugar.

• Grill option: Thread shrimp on skewers & grill for smoky flavor!

⚖️ Approximate Nutritional Info (per serving – 1 of 3)

🌟 Health Benefits

• Shrimp: Lean protein & omega-3s for muscle and heart health

• Avocado: Healthy monounsaturated fats & potassium

• Lime & Veggies: Boost vitamin C and antioxidants

• Naturally gluten-free, low-carb & nutritious!

❓ Q/A

Q: Can I make it dairy-free & gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—it already is!

Q: Substitute for shrimp?
A: Try grilled chicken, salmon chunks, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Best fresh, but components can be stored separately for up to 2 days.