This Creamy Shrimp & Avocado Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with protein. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing make it perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy side dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

---

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup celery, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Cooking the Shrimp

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Creamy Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

---

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked.
6. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • Mayonnaise
   • Greek yogurt
   • Lime juice
   • Dijon mustard
   • Honey
   • Olive oil
   • Garlic powder
   • Onion powder
   • Paprika
   • Salt and pepper
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl combine:
   • Cooked shrimp
   • Avocados
   • Cherry tomatoes
   • Cucumber
   • Red onion
   • Celery
   • Cilantro
   • Parsley
2. Pour the dressing over the salad.
3. Toss gently to coat without mashing the avocado.
4. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving if desired.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over crisp romaine lettuce.
• Enjoy with toasted sourdough bread.
• Fill lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
• Spoon into avocado halves.
• Serve with crackers or pita chips.
• Pair with grilled corn or roasted vegetables.

---

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Potassium: 730mg
• Vitamin C: 20% DV
• Vitamin E: 15% DV

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

---

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as avocado and the creamy dressing do not freeze well.
• For the freshest results, add avocado just before serving if making ahead.

---

Nut Information

Contains Nuts? No.

Tree Nuts: None.

Peanuts: None.

Coconut: Not included.

Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. However, always check the labels on mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Greek yogurt, and any packaged ingredients to ensure they have not been processed in facilities that also handle nuts if serving someone with severe nut allergies.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes. Thaw completely, pat dry, and cook as directed.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

A: Absolutely. Simply thaw (if frozen), rinse if needed, and add directly to the salad.

Q: How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?

A: Toss the avocado with a little extra lime juice before mixing it into the salad.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes. Prepare everything except the avocado and combine just before serving for the best texture and color.

Q: Can I replace the mayonnaise?

A: Yes. Use all Greek yogurt for a lighter version or substitute mashed avocado for part of the mayonnaise.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

A: Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Q: What other vegetables can I add?

A: Bell peppers, radishes, corn, diced mango, or sliced olives all pair well with the shrimp and avocado.

Q: What can I serve with this salad?

A: It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, quinoa, rice, pasta salad, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.