Description
Mediterranean-inspired Lemony Shrimp, Avocado, and Tomato Salad brings zesty coastal flavors to summer dining. Fresh ingredients combine for a light, refreshing meal that delivers bold, tangy notes you’ll eagerly enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large avocados, diced
- 8 oz (226 g) mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green chili, seeded and sliced
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1 lemon, for juice and zest
- 1 handful cilantro or flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsps olive or avocado oil, divided (use avocado oil for cooking and olive oil for the dressing)
- Sea salt to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sear Shrimp: Heat skillet to high temperature and cook shrimp with garlic until pink and tender, seasoning with sea salt and cracked pepper. Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
- Prepare Vegetables: Cube avocados, halve cherry tomatoes, and finely chop green chili and selected herb (cilantro or parsley). Ensure precise, uniform cutting for balanced texture and presentation.
- Create Citrus Dressing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and zest, then whisk with extra virgin olive oil. This bright dressing will enhance flavors and prevent avocado browning while providing a luxurious coating.
- Combine and Season: Gently fold seared shrimp into vegetable mixture, allowing citrus-infused dressing to marry ingredients. Delicately mix to distribute flavors and create a harmonious Mediterranean-style salad.
- Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper. Serve immediately to preserve crisp textures and vibrant colors, ensuring maximum flavor intensity and visual appeal.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Select plump, firm shrimp without discoloration or strong fishy odor for the best taste and texture.
- Prevent Avocado Browning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over cubed avocados immediately after cutting to maintain their bright green color and prevent oxidation.
- Control Heat While Searing: Use medium-high heat when cooking shrimp to achieve a golden exterior without overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the salad right after preparation to preserve the crisp vegetables, tender shrimp, and vibrant flavors at their peak freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 to 5
- Calories: 87
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg