This colorful Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad is a fresh and tasty treat! It combines juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty salsa for a delightful explosion of flavors.
It’s like a party in a bowl! 😄 I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when you need something light but satisfying. Just toss everything together, and you’re all set!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using cooked shrimp saves time, but if you prefer fresh shrimp, just boil or grill them until they turn pink. You can use any shrimp size, but I recommend medium- to large-sized ones for better texture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas are a fantastic alternative.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados for that creamy texture. If you can’t find ripe ones, you can substitute with diced mango for a sweet twist. Just be mindful that the flavor will shift a bit. My personal favorite is blending avocados with a dash of lime to enhance their taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for this salad. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but drain them well to prevent excess moisture. Cherry tomatoes are also great; just halve them for easy mixing!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice bite, but you could use green onions or shallots if you want a milder flavor. If you’re sensitive to raw onions, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to lessen their sharpness.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can work as good replacements. Personally, I love adding a little extra cilantro for more flavor!
How Do You Keep Avocados from Browning?
One common issue with salad containing avocados is browning. Here are some tips to keep them looking fresh:
- Use fresh lime juice on the avocados. The acidity slows down the browning process.
- Mix the avocados into the salad just before serving. This limits their exposure to air.
- For storage, cover the salad with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to minimize air contact.
By following these simple steps, your salad will not only taste great but also look vibrant and appetizing! Enjoy your meal!
Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (plus extra lime slices for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix everything together—and then you can sit back and enjoy the fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if you’re using it). Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well to create a zesty salsa.
2. Toss the Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated so they have a nice flavor.
3. Add the Avocado:
Add the diced avocados to the shrimp and gently fold them together. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want it to retain its lovely chunks.
4. Combine Everything:
Spoon the prepared salsa over the shrimp and avocado mixture. Use a spatula to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely blended.
5. Final Touches:
Drizzle the remaining lime juice over the salad and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with lime slices and extra cilantro if you like. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad as a light lunch or a delightful appetizer!
Can I Use Raw Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use raw shrimp, but you’ll need to cook them first. Simply boil or sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, then let them cool before adding them to the salad.
How Do I Keep Avocados From Browning?
To prevent browning, mix the avocado with lime juice immediately after cutting. This acidity helps slow down oxidation. You can also store any leftovers in an airtight container, pressing plastic wrap directly against the surface of the avocados.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salsa and shrimp mixture a few hours in advance. Just add the avocados right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
What Should I Serve With This Salad?
This salad is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with tortilla chips, on top of a bed of greens, or alongside grilled corn for a flavorful meal. It also pairs well with a light white wine.
