Refreshing Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is like a refreshing ocean breeze on a hot summer day, bursting with vibrant flavors and creamy textures. Picture succulent shrimp mingling with luscious avocado, all tossed together in a zesty dressing that dances on your palate. This salad is the ultimate companion for those lazy afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during one of those backyard BBQs where the grill was smoking, but my heart longed for something fresh. As soon as I took a bite, I was transported to a tropical paradise—well, at least in my imagination. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cooked Shrimp: Look for medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. They can be easily found frozen or fresh.

• Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed. They should be creamy but not overly mushy.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for plump, juicy tomatoes; they add a burst of sweetness to the salad.

• Cucumber: A crunchy cucumber adds freshness and texture. English cucumbers are an excellent choice since they’re sweeter.

• Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the entire dish with its tangy zest.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enriches the flavor while keeping everything moist.

• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this delightful salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients on your kitchen counter. This makes it easier to toss everything together quickly.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

Dice the ripe avocados into cubes and slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Chop the cucumber into small pieces and thinly slice the red onion.

Step 3: Combine in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, diced avocados, halved tomatoes, cucumber pieces, and red onion slices.

Step 4: Dress It Up

Drizzle fresh lemon juice and olive oil over your mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Toss Gently

Using two large spoons or spatulas, gently toss everything together until well coated but be careful not to mash the avocados!

Step 6: Chill & Serve

Let your salad rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving; this allows all those fantastic flavors to mingle nicely.

Transfer to plates or bowls and enjoy your refreshing Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad as an appetizer or light main course!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your shrimp, boiling them until they turn pink. While they cool, chop your avocados and veggies. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and ready at the same time, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer. Add some spicy jalapeños or sweet mango for an exciting twist. Customize the dressing with lime juice, cilantro, or your favorite herbs to elevate the taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh for optimal taste and texture.

I once made this Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad for a summer picnic, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They said it tasted like sunshine on a plate!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad?

For a delicious Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad, gather fresh shrimp, ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Ensure your shrimp are cooked and chilled before assembling the salad. This simple list of ingredients allows you to create a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

How do I prepare shrimp for the salad?

To prepare shrimp for your Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad, start by boiling them in salted water until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. After cooling down, drain and pat them dry before adding them to your salad. Properly prepared shrimp enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

Can I make Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad ahead of time. However, it is best to assemble it just before serving to keep the avocado from browning. You can prepare all individual components like chopped vegetables and cooked shrimp in advance, then combine them with dressing right before serving. This method ensures freshness while saving you time on busy days.

What can I serve with Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad?

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or whole-grain crackers for added texture. A light soup or a simple green salad can complement this dish beautifully as well. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with quinoa or couscous for a nutritious touch that enhances flavors.

Conclusion for Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a refreshing dish that combines fresh ingredients for a delightful meal. With easy preparation steps and versatile serving options, this salad is perfect for gatherings or quick lunches. Remember to use quality shrimp and ripe avocados for optimal flavor. By following this recipe, you will enjoy a light yet satisfying dish that everyone will love!

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Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

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• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 51 minute
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather. This salad features tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or whenever you desire a light yet satisfying meal. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor reminiscent of tropical bliss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced (preferably English)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, avocados, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Gently toss until well mixed without mashing the avocado.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Customize by swapping shrimp with cooked chicken or turkey. To prevent browning of avocados if preparing ahead of time, squeeze additional lemon juice over them before mixing.