If you’re looking for a dish that’s as sunny and vibrant as a beach vacation, the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s a refreshing combination of sweet, tangy citrus, creamy avocado, and perfectly tender shrimp—all brought together in one colorful bowl. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, an elegant brunch, or a summer potluck, this salad delivers flavor in every single bite, balancing zesty freshness with just the right hint of richness. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This list is all about simplicity and maximizing flavor—every ingredient makes a delicious impact. From the juiciness of ripe citrus to the herby brightness of cilantro and the creaminess of avocado, each one plays a starring role. Here’s what you’ll need (and why):
- Cooked shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Tender, juicy shrimp bring a sweet, delicate seafood flavor that’s both satisfying and light.
- Ripe avocados (2, diced): Creamy avocado adds a buttery texture and mellow flavor that complements the bold citrus beautifully.
- Orange (1, peeled and segmented): Fresh orange segments offer bursts of juicy sweetness and bright color.
- Grapefruit (1, peeled and segmented): The tangy zing of grapefruit cuts through the richness for perfect balance.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): Thin wisps of onion add crunch, color, and a gentle bite that lifts the salad.
- Fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped): Cilantro brings a pop of herbal freshness that ties all the flavors together.
- Mixed greens or arugula (4 cups): The base of greens gives the salad height and a peppery background note.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A silky base for the dressing, olive oil adds richness without overwhelming.
- Orange juice (1 tablespoon): Freshly squeezed orange juice in the dressing mirrors the salad’s citrusy flavors.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Just a splash of lime brightens the whole salad and sharpens the dressing.
- Honey (1 teaspoon): A touch of honey keeps the dressing perfectly balanced—never too sharp.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the vibrant components together.
How to Make Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Up the Citrus Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture looks glossy and smooth. This simple dressing captures the sunshiney citrus flavors that define this salad—don’t skip the whisking step, as it really brings everything together!
Step 2: Toss the Main Ingredients
Take your largest mixing bowl and gently toss in the cooked shrimp, creamy avocado cubes, vibrant orange and grapefruit segments, crisp red onion slices, and fragrant cilantro. Stir everything delicately, taking care not to mash up the avocado or citrus. It’s almost like assembling a work of edible art—colorful, beautiful, and mouthwatering.
Step 3: Dress and Gently Combine
Give your prepared citrus dressing a quick stir and drizzle it evenly over the shrimp and fruit mixture. Using a soft spatula or clean hands, toss gently to coat everything in that zesty, tangy goodness. The idea is to glaze every bite but keep all the textures intact (especially those luscious avocado pieces!).
Step 4: Serve Over Greens
Arrange the mixed greens or arugula as a fluffy bed on each plate or in a large serving bowl. Spoon the shrimp, avocado, and citrus mixture over the top, making sure to get an even distribution of all the colors and flavors. Your Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is now ready for its grand entrance!
How to Serve Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make your salad look even more irresistible, sprinkle it with extra cilantro leaves or garnish with a few extra orange and grapefruit segments. If you want a little added crunch, a handful of toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds makes a great finishing touch!
Side Dishes
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette, some olive oil and sea salt crackers, or even a chilled cup of gazpacho for a light meal. If you’re serving it for brunch, a side of roasted potatoes or a simple grain bowl works wonderfully with the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready spin, consider serving individual portions in cocktail glasses or mason jars for a portable, elegant appetizer. Another fun idea: mound the shrimp mixture inside avocado halves or hollowed-out citrus shells for a stunning presentation that will get everyone talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe is best enjoyed within a day, as the avocado can start to brown and the citrus may lose a bit of its zip, but a hearty squeeze of lime before serving can revive the flavors nicely.
Freezing
While the shrimp itself can be frozen, it’s not recommended to freeze the fully assembled salad—avocado and citrus fruits don’t fare well in the freezer, as their textures change quite a lot upon thawing. If you need to prep ahead, freeze the shrimp separately, then combine with fresh-made components when you’re ready.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. In fact, serving the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe freshly chilled lets the flavors shine and keeps the textures just right. If your shrimp have been refrigerated, allowing them to come to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving is perfect.
FAQs
Can I substitute another seafood for shrimp?
Absolutely! Cooked scallops or lump crabmeat are delightful alternatives that still pair wonderfully with citrus and avocado. Choose whichever you prefer, keeping portion sizes about the same.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add the avocado right before serving and toss it in a bit of lime juice or some of the prepared dressing to slow oxidation and keep its gorgeous green color.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
You can prep the dressing and the citrus segments ahead, and slice the shrimp and onions early, but wait to cut the avocado and assemble everything until just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Is the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe gluten free?
Yes! This salad is naturally gluten free and dairy free, making it a fantastic choice for guests with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a light, healthful meal.
What drinks pair well with this salad?
A glass of crisp white wine (think Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) is divine, but a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime keeps it refreshing and non-alcoholic. Even a lightly sweetened iced tea with mint is a wonderful match!
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re craving something easy, bright, and bursting with flavors, treat yourself and your loved ones to the Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe. It’s sure to bring a bit of sunshine to your table and plenty of smiles to anyone who takes a bite—so don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular favorite!
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Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Shrimp & Avocado Citrus Salad is a refreshing and light dish perfect for a summer meal. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy citrus fruits are tossed together with a zesty citrus dressing for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- 1 orange (peeled and segmented)
- 1 grapefruit (peeled and segmented)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 4 cups mixed greens or arugula
For the Citrus Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the shrimp, avocado, orange segments, grapefruit segments, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the citrus dressing over the mixture and toss lightly to coat.
- Serve: Place the shrimp mixture over a bed of mixed greens or arugula. Garnish with extra citrus slices or cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For best texture, add avocado just before serving.
- You can substitute cooked scallops or crab for shrimp.
- This salad pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
