Description
A vibrant and refreshing Zesty Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad combining tender pan-seared shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp greens, and crunchy almonds, all lightly dressed with a citrusy olive oil dressing for a perfect light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound medium shrimp (fresh or thawed)
- 8 cups greens (spinach or arugula recommended)
- 2 medium avocados (ripe)
- 1 medium shallot (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (high-quality)
- 1 tablespoon lemon or orange juice (fresh)
- To taste kosher salt
- To taste freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Prepare all ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp if necessary. Finely chop the shallot, slice the almonds, wash and dry the greens, and cube or slice the avocados carefully to keep them intact.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Pan-sear the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the greens, chopped avocado, finely chopped shallot, and sliced almonds.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the salad with the extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice, using about a tablespoon, adjusting according to taste.
- Season: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to taste.
- Toss Gently and Serve: Carefully toss all ingredients together to evenly coat with the dressing without bruising the delicate greens or mashing the avocado. Serve the salad immediately for best freshness and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Be gentle when mixing to prevent the avocado from becoming mushy.
- You can substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different crunch profile.
- Adjust citrus juice amount to taste; orange juice offers a sweeter note while lemon adds zing.
- This salad is best served fresh; avocado can brown if left too long after slicing.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
