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Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a bold, refreshing dish packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavor. Juicy, seared shrimp are paired with creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a zesty citrus dressing—perfect for a light lunch, summer dinner, or meal prep staple. Quick to make, full of texture, and endlessly adaptable.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Course Main, Lunch, Dinner
Cuisine Fusion, Healthy, Gluten-Free
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or small jar with lid
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Tongs or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 ripe avocados, sliced or cubed
  • 4 cups mixed greens or baby spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, sliced
  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
  • Optional: ½ cup black beans or corn, cilantro, sliced radish

For the Marinade:

  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Citrus Dressing:

  • Juice of 1 lime or lemon
  • ½ tsp chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes
  • 1 clove garlic, finely grated or minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Shrimp

  • In a bowl, combine shrimp with lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Sauté the Shrimp

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly seared. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili flakes, garlic, herbs, and seasoning until emulsified.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl or on plates, arrange greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and avocado. Add shrimp on top.

Dress & Serve

  • Drizzle with the citrus dressing. Garnish with extra herbs, lime wedges, or a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make Ahead Tip: Cook shrimp and chop veggies in advance, but slice avocado and dress the salad just before serving.
  • Add Crunch: Sprinkle with roasted pepitas, sesame seeds, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture.
  • Make It a Bowl: Serve over quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice for a more filling version.
  • Spice Control: Adjust chili flakes or swap in mild paprika for a gentler flavor.
  • Protein Swap: Chicken, tofu, or salmon all work beautifully in place of shrimp.
Keyword avocado citrus salad, healthy shrimp bowl, shrimp avocado salad, spicy shrimp salad