Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Zesty lime shrimp and avocado salad in a bowl with herbs
Jump to Recipe

introduction

Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a bright, fresh dish that starts with lime-marinated shrimp and ripe avocado. This salad comes together fast and feels light but full of flavor. If you like quick meals, you will enjoy how the lime lifts the shrimp and how creamy avocado balances the tang. For another easy avocado meal, try this chicken avocado melt sandwich for more simple ideas.

why make this recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes.
  • Few ingredients: You need just shrimp, lime, oil, avocado, onion, and cilantro.
  • Fresh flavor: Citrus and cilantro brighten every bite.
  • Great for warm days: Light, chilled, and refreshing.
  • Impressive to friends: Looks fancy but is very simple.

This version stands out because the shrimp marinate briefly in lime for real flavor, then cook quickly to keep them tender. The mix of creamy avocado and zesty lime gives a fresh contrast you rarely get in heavier salads. It feels healthy and satisfying, perfect to share.

Ingredients :

  • For the shrimp and dressing:
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • For the salad:
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (use less if you like mild onion)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Notes: Use medium or large shrimp. If limes are small, add extra juice to taste. Choose firm-ripe avocados so they hold shape.

how to make Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

  1. Prepare and marinate the shrimp. Put the peeled shrimp in a bowl. Add the lime juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a little pepper. Toss so all shrimp are coated. Let them sit for 15 minutes. This quick marinate adds bright flavor and starts to tenderize the shrimp.
  2. Heat the pan. Warm a sauté pan over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of oil if the pan is dry. A hot pan seals the shrimp and keeps them juicy.
  3. Cook the shrimp. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and curl and are no longer translucent. Total cook time is about 3–4 minutes. Do not overcook — shrimp will get rubbery.
  4. Prep the salad base. While shrimp cook, put diced avocados, chopped red onion, and cilantro into a large bowl. Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape when tossed.
  5. Combine gently. Add the warm cooked shrimp to the bowl with avocado and onion. Gently fold everything with a spoon to mix, being careful not to mash the avocado. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime if needed.
  6. Chill and serve. For best flavor, chill the salad briefly so it cools and the flavors settle. Serve within a few hours for freshest texture. For a different protein twist, you can compare styles with an avocado chickpea tuna salad.

Directions :

  1. In a bowl, marinate the shrimp in lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a sauté pan over medium heat and cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped red onion, and cilantro.
  4. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss everything gently to combine.
  5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

how to serve Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

  • Serve chilled on a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach for a light meal.
  • Spoon into taco shells or warm tortillas for quick shrimp tacos.
  • Place on toast or a slice of crusty bread for an open-faced sandwich.
  • Garnish with extra lime wedges and a few cilantro sprigs for color.

how to store Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

  • Short term: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Avocado browns, so use the salad the same day for best look and taste.
  • Keep shrimp and avocado separate if you plan to store longer: cooked shrimp will keep 2–3 days in the fridge in a sealed container; add avocado just before serving.
  • Do not freeze this salad — avocado texture and fresh onion do not freeze well.

tips to make Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best bright flavor. Bottled lime juice tastes flat.
  • Do not over-marinate shrimp — 15 minutes is enough. Acid will start to “cook” shrimp if left too long.
  • Cut avocados just before tossing to avoid browning. If you must prep early, toss avocado with a little lime juice.
  • Taste for salt after tossing; avocado can mute seasonings.
  • Use medium-high heat for a quick sear — shrimp cook fast.

variation (if any)

  • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
  • Creamy dressing: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons plain yogurt or sour cream with extra lime for a creamier mix.
  • Add veggies: Mix in diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or corn for texture.
  • Swap protein: Use cooked chicken or canned tuna if shrimp are not available.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp fully in the fridge or under cold running water, then pat dry. Marinate and cook as directed. Dry shrimp will sear better.

How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

Toss the avocado with a little lime juice before mixing. Serve the salad the same day for best color. Storing shrimp and avocado separately also helps.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Partly. You can cook and store the shrimp ahead for 2–3 days, but add avocado and onion right before serving to keep texture fresh.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Avoid adding any dressings or sides that contain gluten.

Conclusion

This Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad gives you a fast, fresh meal that balances tangy lime, tender shrimp, and creamy avocado. It works as a light lunch, a starter, or a chilled dinner on warm nights. If you liked this recipe, you might enjoy more ideas and tips from Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad – My Go-To Recipe! Try it, leave a star rating and a short comment to share how you served it. What did you add or change — let us know below!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Zesty Lime Shrimp And Avocado Salad 2026 02 03 223639 800x800 1

Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: chef-ava
  • Total Time: 19 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free
Print Recipe

Description

A bright, fresh salad made with lime-marinated shrimp, creamy avocado, and vibrant cilantro.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, marinate the shrimp in lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a sauté pan over medium heat and cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped red onion, and cilantro.
  4. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss everything gently to combine.
  5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

Use medium or large shrimp. If limes are small, add extra juice to taste. Choose firm-ripe avocados so they hold shape.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star