The vibrant colors and clean flavors of this Shrimp and Avocado Salad make it a standout dish for any meal. Plump shrimp meet buttery avocado in a citrusy lime dressing that ties everything together in the most refreshing way. With the added crunch of cucumber and zing from red onion, each bite is loaded with texture and flavor.
Perfect for a light lunch, meal prep, or even a picnic dish, this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly, so it works for almost any dietary preference. Whether you’re looking to eat clean or just want something quick and satisfying, this salad is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 ripe avocados, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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1 cucumber, chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Juice of 1 lime
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for a spicy kick
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper (and jalapeño if using).
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Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly.
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Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Shrimp and Avocado Salad: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Meal for Any Time of Day
Shrimp and Avocado Salad is the perfect representation of what happens when convenience meets nutrition and irresistible taste. It’s a dish that marries the richness of creamy avocado with the fresh, juicy bite of shrimp, all brought together by bright citrus, herbs, and crisp vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb lunch, a light dinner, or a dish that’s paleo and Whole30 compliant, this salad delivers on all fronts.
It’s a salad that feels indulgent while still being healthy, hearty enough to fill you up, and flexible enough to make your own. Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep and no need for cooking if you use pre-cooked shrimp, this is a meal that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without compromising quality or flavor.
The Star Ingredients: Simple, Whole, and Wholesome
One of the most enticing aspects of this salad is how clean the ingredient list is. Each component has a purpose and enhances the flavor profile in its own way.
- Shrimp: Protein-Packed & Naturally Sweet
Shrimp is a lean source of protein, low in calories, and rich in essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Its slightly sweet, briny taste pairs beautifully with citrus and herbs. Pre-cooked shrimp works wonderfully in this dish, making the preparation lightning-fast. However, for a little extra flavor, grilling or sautéing fresh shrimp with a touch of garlic or chili flakes can elevate the final dish.
- Avocado: Creamy, Nutrient-Dense Goodness
Avocados are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute a luxurious creaminess to the salad, creating a contrast in texture that’s downright crave-worthy. The richness of the avocado balances the lightness of the shrimp, making each bite well-rounded and satisfying.
- Cherry Tomatoes and Cucumber: Fresh, Juicy Crunch
To add brightness and freshness, we include cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Tomatoes contribute subtle sweetness and acidity, while cucumber adds a cool crunch. Both help to cut through the creaminess of the avocado and enhance the dish’s overall texture.
- Red Onion: A Sharp Zing
Thinly sliced red onion introduces a sharp, peppery bite that complements the citrus and seafood components of the salad. If raw onion is too strong for your liking, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
- Cilantro and Lime: Herbaceous Citrus Punch
No shrimp and avocado salad are complete without a dose of lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. The lime brings bright acidity that ties everything together, while the cilantro gives the dish a vibrant herbaceous note that feels unmistakably fresh.
Why Shrimp and Avocado Salad is the Ultimate Healthy Meal
If you’re following a specific eating lifestyle, whether it’s low-carb, keto, paleo, Whole30, or gluten-free, this recipe fits seamlessly. And even if you’re not, it’s a smart way to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.
Here’s what makes it such a winner:
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High in Protein – Shrimp provides a quality source of lean protein that helps you feel full longer and supports muscle growth and repair.
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Healthy Fats – The avocado adds healthy fats that are good for heart health and skin, while also enhancing nutrient absorption from the vegetables.
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Low in Carbs – This salad is naturally low-carb and fits easily into ketogenic and diabetic-friendly diets.
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Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free – No grains or dairy needed here, which means fewer allergens and easier digestion.
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Fiber-Rich – Between the veggies and avocado, you’re getting a good amount of fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied.
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Anti-inflammatory – Ingredients like avocado, shrimp, and olive oil contain compounds known to reduce inflammation, making this a great dish for promoting overall health.
Meal Prep Friendly, Versatile, and Customizable
One of the best features of this salad is its adaptability. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which makes it ideal for meal prep. If you’re planning to eat it later, consider keeping the avocado and dressing separate until right before serving to keep everything fresh and avoid browning.
Optional Add-Ins:
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Leafy Greens – Serve over a bed of romaine, spinach, or arugula for more volume.
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Grains – Add quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to make it more filling.
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Cheese – Crumbled feta or cotija can add a salty, tangy twist (if not Whole30 or dairy-free).
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Spices – A dash of cayenne, chili powder, or cumin can lend some heat or smokiness.
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Fruit – For a tropical flair, toss in mango, pineapple, or orange segments.
This salad also works beautifully as a taco filling, a topping for tostadas, or even spooned into lettuce cups for a light and elegant appetizer.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
While it’s incredibly easy to prepare, Shrimp and Avocado Salad is elegant enough for entertaining. It’s light enough to be served as a starter or side dish yet satisfying enough to stand alone as a main course. It’s perfect for spring and summer, but the bright flavors are just as welcome in the cooler months when you want something that reminds you of warmer days.
This dish also makes a thoughtful contribution to potlucks or gatherings where you want to offer something health-conscious that everyone will enjoy. Unlike creamy mayonnaise-based seafood salads, this one is refreshing and light, and its colorful appearance makes it visually appealing on any table.
Nutritional Benefits at a Glance
Here’s a quick snapshot of the benefits you’ll get from each serving of this delicious salad:
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Calories: ~280
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Protein: ~24g
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Carbohydrates: ~8g
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Fats: ~18g (mostly heart-healthy monounsaturated fats)
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Fiber: ~6g
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Sodium: Moderate, depending on your choice of shrimp and added salt
It’s a fantastic option for those tracking macros, trying to lose weight, or maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
Kid-Friendly, Adult-Approved
Though it might seem gourmet, this recipe is simple enough that even picky eaters will be tempted by its creamy texture and mild flavors. For children, you can dice everything smaller and leave out spicier components like jalapeño or too much onion. Adults will appreciate the complexity of flavors and how satisfying it is without being heavy.
Conclusion
Shrimp and Avocado Salad is more than just a quick meal, it’s a celebration of fresh, nutritious ingredients that come together in harmony. Whether you’re following a specific eating plan or just trying to add more whole foods to your diet, this salad offers everything: protein, healthy fats, fiber, and flavor.
Best of all, it’s endlessly customizable and incredibly simple to make. In just 15 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy dish on your table that fuels your body and delights your taste buds. Perfect for lunch, dinner, entertaining, or meal prep, this salad is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on how good clean eating can taste.