There are salads, and then there’s this—an irresistible, sun-kissed Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe that captures summer in every bite. Plump, juicy shrimp, lush avocado, and vibrant citrus segments come together in a crisp, aromatic medley that’s as dazzling to look at as it is fresh and flavorful. Every element works in harmony, bound with a zesty homemade dressing that’ll wake up your taste buds. This is the ultimate dish for those days you crave something light, colorful, and nutritious, yet utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Prepare to be amazed by how a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients can turn an ordinary salad into an extraordinary meal. Every item in this Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is handpicked for its role in taste, texture, and sheer visual appeal.

Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled, deveined, cooked, and chilled): The succulent centerpiece; for the freshest flavor, go for wild-caught or grill your shrimp with some spices!
Avocados (2 ripe, diced): Creamy, buttery, and loaded with healthy fats; ripe avocados are key to its luscious texture.
Mixed greens or arugula (2 cups): Adds crunch and a peppery brightness, providing a crisp base for all the bold flavors.
Orange segments (1/2 cup): Sweet, juicy jewel-like bursts that accent every bite with gentle citrus notes.
Grapefruit segments (1/2 cup): Zippy and tart; these balance the sweetness of the orange and the richness of avocado.
Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): Lends bite and color—soak slices briefly in ice water to mellow the sharpness if you wish.
Fresh cilantro leaves (1/4 cup): Herbaceous and bright; they bring a burst of green vibrancy to the mix.
Crumbled feta cheese (1/4 cup, optional): For a salty, tangy accent that contrasts perfectly with the citrus and shrimp.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Choose a good-quality extra-virgin oil for a smooth, fruity touch to the dressing.
Fresh lime juice (2 tablespoons): Bright and tart; this ingredient lifts and balances the whole salad.
Orange juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a sweet, floral underline to the dressing, echoing the citrus in the salad.
Honey (1 teaspoon): For subtle sweetness that rounds out the acidity in the dressing.
Dijon mustard (1/2 teaspoon): The secret touch for a creamy, tangy emulsion in the dressing.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): To wake up all the flavors; adjust to taste!
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly cracked is best, for that gentle heat on the finish.

How to Make Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Up the Citrus Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing looks glossy and perfectly emulsified. This zesty blend is what infuses every bite of the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe with fresh, tangy goodness.

Step 2: Prep the Main Ingredients

Make sure your shrimp are cooked, peeled, deveined, and chilled. Next, gently dice the avocados, and segment your orange and grapefruit. Thinly slice the red onion and chop your cilantro. Taking these steps ahead of time makes assembly a breeze and ensures vibrant, crisp results.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed greens or arugula, shrimp, diced avocado, orange and grapefruit segments, red onion slices, and cilantro leaves. Arrange everything evenly so every serving is loaded with the good stuff.

Step 4: Add the Dressing and Toss

Drizzle your freshly whisked citrus dressing all over the bowl. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients. Take care not to mash the avocado—gentle hands keep everything beautiful and intact.

Step 5: Finish with Feta and Serve

If you’re using feta, sprinkle it over the top of the salad for a burst of salty creaminess. Serve your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe immediately while everything is crisp, chilled, and flavors are at their peak.

How to Serve Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your salad is half the fun! A shower of extra cilantro, a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pistachios, or a few microgreens make each plate a work of art. Add a final dusting of cracked black pepper for that chef’s touch as you present your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe to guests.

Side Dishes

Complement this salad with warm, crusty bread or a side of quinoa for a complete meal. If you’re keeping things light, a fresh gazpacho or chilled soup works beautifully alongside the citrusy, vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe in clear glass bowls to showcase the rainbow of ingredients, or pile it high over endive leaves for bite-sized appetizers. Layer in Mason jars for portable lunches or picnic spreads—just keep the dressing on the bottom and shake it up when ready to enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which honestly, rarely happens!), store the remaining Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The greens and shrimp will hold up well, but try to eat it as soon as possible for the best texture—avocado tends to brown after a while.

Freezing

Freezing this salad isn’t recommended, as both the avocado and citrus will become mushy and lose their flavor. However, cooked shrimp can be frozen separately, and you can prep citrus segments ahead of time, storing them in the fridge.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh. If your shrimp were frozen and you’re starting from scratch, thaw them thoroughly in the fridge before assembling. Warm elements can wilt the greens, so always assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge or run them briefly under cold water, then pat dry before adding them to your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe. Be sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the diced avocado in a splash of extra lime or lemon juice before adding to the salad. Citrus slows the browning process so your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe stays bright and appetizing.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for anyone sensitive to gluten or needing a light, healthy meal.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the elements—dressing, sliced onions, and segmented citrus—ahead of time, as well as chill your shrimp. However, wait to dice the avocado and assemble just before serving for the freshest results.

What other proteins work in this salad?

While shrimp is scrumptious, you could also try seared scallops, chunks of grilled salmon, or flaked crab. Each seafood option brings a new dimension to your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe!

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about a fresh, fuss-free meal that delivers on every level, and this Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is one to add straight to the top of your must-try list. Light, zesty, and bursting with color, it’ll win you over from the very first forkful. Gather your ingredients, toss it up, and watch this stunner become your new go-to for everything from quick lunches to special dinners!

Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad recipe is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a light meal or appetizer. Succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a zesty citrus dressing come together with fresh greens and fruity segments for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled, deveined, cooked, and chilled)

Salad:

2 ripe avocados (diced)
2 cups mixed greens or arugula
1/2 cup orange segments
1/2 cup grapefruit segments
1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Citrus Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Citrus Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth to make the citrus dressing.
Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the shrimp, avocado, mixed greens, orange segments, grapefruit segments, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with the citrus dressing and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with feta cheese if using.
Serve immediately while chilled.

Notes

For extra crunch, add toasted almonds or pistachios.
You can grill the shrimp with a touch of paprika and garlic before chilling for more flavor.
Best served fresh, as avocado browns quickly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean