This Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad is fresh, colorful, and full of flavor! Juicy shrimp are tossed with creamy avocado and zesty salsa, making it a perfect light meal.
It’s great for warm days when you want something refreshing and easy. I love having it with crispy tortilla chips on the side—yum! 🥑🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp truly shine in this salad. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. I find that medium shrimp works best for this dish—it’s the perfect bite size!
Avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess and richness. If you need a substitute, you could use diced mango for a fruity twist. Just be careful when selecting avocados; they should be slightly soft but not mushy!
Tomatoes: I use fresh, ripe tomatoes for flavor, but cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes work great too! If you’re in a pinch, canned diced tomatoes can be a quick substitute, just drain them well.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lot of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try using parsley instead. It won’t taste the same but will still give some freshness to the salad.
Lime juice: Fresh lime juice is a must for brightness. I suggest using lemon juice if you don’t have limes on hand, although it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How Can You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but getting it just right can be tricky. Overcooked shrimp can be tough, so here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a hot skillet and add oil. Make sure it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and let them sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them. This allows a nice crust to form.
- Flip the shrimp once they turn pink on the bottom. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. They’re done when they curl up into a “C” shape.
- Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your salad!
Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- Juice of 2 limes
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Sliced avocado for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Vegetables:
While the shrimp are cooling, take a large mixing bowl and add the diced avocados, diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and minced jalapeño if you want it spicy. Mix them gently to combine.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked shrimp to your vegetable mixture. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocados; we want them to stay chunky!
5. Season and Serve:
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the salad in bowls, and feel free to garnish with additional sliced avocado. Pair it with tortilla chips on the side for a perfect crunch!
Enjoy this fresh and vibrant salad that perfectly balances creamy avocado, zesty salsa, and tender shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more jalapeño or include red pepper flakes in the seasoning. Additionally, try incorporating diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce for an extra spicy finish!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
While you can prepare most components ahead of time, I recommend waiting to mix the avocado into the salad until just before serving to prevent browning. You can prep the shrimp, chop the vegetables, and combine them but keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to eat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, so try to eat it sooner rather than later for the best taste and texture!