As I prepared for a sun-soaked picnic last weekend, I suddenly craved something that was both refreshing and satisfying. That’s when my Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad came to life. With its bright colors and delightful textures, this salad features plump, pan-seared shrimp paired with creamy avocado and crunchy toasted almonds. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; this high-protein dish is perfect for meal prep and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or quick lunches. Plus, you can customize it to your heart’s content! Want to throw in some cherry tomatoes or maybe a touch of quinoa? The options are as endless as your culinary creativity. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of vibrant flavors? Let’s get started!
Why Choose This Citrus Shrimp Salad?
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocado, it’s a nourishing choice for anyone seeking a balanced meal.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap ingredients—add your favorite crunchy vegetables or even switch out the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu!
Beautifully Colorful: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing—great for impressing guests or elevating your lunch game.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, just like my delicious Avocado Shrimp Salad!
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for picnics and gatherings, it’s a light, refreshing dish that everyone will love.
Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Medium Shrimp – Provides protein and flavor; use 31/40 shrimp for optimal size.
• Greens – Base of the salad; can use arugula, spinach, lettuce, or a spring mix for texture and nutrients.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; slice or dice for easy eating.
• Shallot – Gives a mild onion flavor when minced; substitute with red onion if needed.
For the Dressing
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps dress the salad; opt for fruity or lemon-flavored varieties for enhanced taste.
• Citrus Juice (Lemon/Orange) – Brightens the dish; use juice from ½ lemon or orange and adjust to taste.
For the Crunch
• Sliced Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch; toast them for enhanced flavor. Can substitute with walnuts or pecans.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste to elevate your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Begin by heating a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add a splash of extra virgin olive oil and toss in your medium shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they’re not overcooked. Remove the shrimp from heat and set aside to cool slightly, allowing their delicious citrus flavor to shine.
Step 2: Prepare the Greens
In a large bowl, choose your base of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, and add a generous handful—around 3-4 cups will work well. Carefully wash and dry the greens to retain their crispness. The vibrant color of the greens will add a beautiful backdrop for your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
While your shrimp cool, let’s whip up a quick dressing! In a small bowl, combine the juice of ½ lemon or orange with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Whisk gently for about 30 seconds until fully combined, allowing the citrus to brighten the upcoming dish.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Greens
Add the sautéed shrimp to the bowl of greens, gently tossing them together to mix. Pour the prepared dressing over this mixture, ensuring an even coat. Use salad tongs or spoons to toss everything together for about 30 seconds until evenly combined, letting the flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 5: Add Creamy Avocado
Next, cut a ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Carefully add the avocado to your salad, gently tossing again to mix without squishing. The creamy avocado will provide a delightful contrast to the vibrant shrimp and greens in your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad.
Step 6: Incorporate Shallots and Nuts
Finely mince a shallot and sprinkle it over your salad. Add in the toasted sliced almonds for that delicious crunch. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste. This step adds layers of flavor and texture to complete your refreshing salad.
Step 7: Serve or Store
Now it’s time to serve your vibrant Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad! Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste, or cover and refrigerate to let the flavors deepen for a meal prep option. If storing, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, maintaining the crispness of the greens.
Expert Tips for Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp turn pink without overcooking; cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side for optimal tenderness.
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Creamy Avocado: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure. Cut them just before adding to the salad to prevent browning.
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Flavorful Dressing: Use the leftover citrus sauce from shrimp as a dressing. It amplifies the flavor of your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad effortlessly.
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Chill for Refreshment: For a refreshing twist, serve the salad chilled. This is especially great for hot days or picnics.
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Seasoning Balance: Adjust the salt and pepper based on personal taste; remember that kosher salt is less concentrated than table salt, so use it liberally.
What to Serve with Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad?
Elevate your meal to new heights with bright, delicious pairings that complement this refreshing salad.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy accompaniment that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing. It’s ideal for adding a comforting touch to your light meal.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, this pilaf adds a satisfying base, providing fiber and additional protein to keep you fuller longer.
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Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roast seasonal veggies like asparagus or bell peppers for earthy flavors that balance the salad’s brightness beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Juicy watermelon, berries, or citrus segments create a vibrant, sweet contrast to the savory salad, enhancing the overall experience.
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Classic Iced Tea: A refreshing sip of unsweetened iced tea with a hint of lemon pairs well, cleansing the palate and highlighting the salad’s citrus notes.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings out the seafood flavors while adding an elegant finish to your meal.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, this sorbet offers a refreshing, sweet-tart way to round off the meal, echoing the citrus theme.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the meal without overwhelming the bright flavors of the shrimp and avocado.
Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Variations
Feel free to personalize your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad for a unique twist that excites your taste buds!
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Extra Crunch: Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber for a burst of freshness and crunch, enhancing the salad’s texture beautifully. Their juicy bite will keep each mouthful interesting!
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Protein Swap: Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a satisfying and protein-rich option, perfect for anyone looking to explore different flavors. This simple switch can create a whole new favorite!
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Hearty Addition: Incorporate quinoa or orzo to make your salad more filling. These grains not only add heartiness but also bring additional nutritional benefits to this already healthy dish. They’ll make you feel fuller while still keeping it light!
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Nut Variations: Change up the sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor and texture. Each nut contributes its own unique taste, giving your salad a delightful twist every time you prepare it.
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Herbal Boost: Add fresh cilantro or basil to uplift the flavor profile of your salad. Their fragrant notes will blend beautifully with the citrus, giving your salad a fresh and vibrant finish.
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Zesty Heat: For a spicy kick, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This will take your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad from refreshing to unforgettable with just a dash of heat!
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Creamy Dressing: If you love rich flavors, mix in some Greek yogurt or avocado dressing to the dressing for an ultra-creamy experience. It will elevate the dish into a decadent and delightful salad.
Discovering what works best for you can turn this already flexible salad into a new family favorite, just like my York Deli Shrimp or Chipotle Lime Shrimp. Enjoy the process of mixing flavors and textures until you find your perfect combination!
How to Store and Freeze Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Fridge: Store prepared salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until serving.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the avocado and greens lose their texture and flavor when thawed. However, cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If using previously cooked shrimp, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through, to avoid overcooking.
Leftovers: Incorporate leftover ingredients into soups or omelets for a quick meal, preventing waste while enjoying the flavors of your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad.
Make Ahead Options
These Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp and dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Sauté the shrimp, then let them cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be whisked together and refrigerated, ensuring it is ready to brighten your salad. Store the greens, avocado, and toppings separately to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all components, toss lightly, and enjoy this refreshing dish just as delicious as if it were freshly made. Meal prep has never tasted so good!
Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for the salad?
For the best results, I recommend using medium shrimp, specifically 31/40 size. These shrimp provide a perfect balance of flavor and texture, making your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad absolutely delightful!
How should I store the salad, and how long does it last?
Store your prepared salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, your greens will remain crisp and vibrant!
Can I freeze the salad or its components?
While it’s best to avoid freezing the entire salad due to the textures of avocado and greens altering when thawed, you can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat gently before adding to your salad!
What if my avocado isn’t ripe enough?
If your avocado is still firm, place it in a paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two. The ethylene gas given off by these fruits speeds up the ripening process! When it’s ripe, you’ll want to slice and add it just before serving to keep it looking fresh.
Can I customize the Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad for allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily swap the shrimp for grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost. If you have nut allergies, simply omit the almonds or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This dish is versatile and friendly for many dietary preferences!
What are some troubleshooting tips if I’m facing issues while making this salad?
If your shrimp turn out tough, it might be that they were overcooked; aim for cooking them just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. For the avocados, if they’re browned when you’re ready to serve, a squeeze of lemon juice will help keep them fresh-looking and add extra flavor to your Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad.
Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad for Vibrant Meal Prep Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add olive oil and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Prepare the Greens: In a large bowl, add fresh greens (3-4 cups), wash and dry them well.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine juice of ½ lemon or orange with a drizzle of olive oil. Whisk gently for about 30 seconds.
- Combine Shrimp and Greens: Add sautéed shrimp to the bowl of greens, toss gently, and pour the dressing over the mixture.
- Add Creamy Avocado: Cut avocado in half, remove the pit, slice it, and add it to the salad without squishing.
- Incorporate Shallots and Nuts: Mince shallot and sprinkle over salad. Add toasted almonds and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or refrigerate with dressing kept separate until ready to serve.
