Fresh Lemony Shrimp Avocado Tomato Salad
Fresh Lemony Shrimp, Avocado, and Tomato Salad brings the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only visually stunning but is also rich in protein and healthy fats, keeping you satisfied for hours. Ideal for summer parties or casual get-togethers, it requires minimal effort for maximum taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This salad is the epitome of freshness. The bright and zesty lemon dressing enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp and the creamy texture of ripe avocados. Using mixed colors of cherry tomatoes not only adds a pop of color to your dish but also a variety of flavors, enhancing your overall eating experience. It’s healthy, takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, and can be adjusted to serve any number of guests – perfect for doubling or tripling for larger gatherings. Not to mention, it’s gluten-free!
Pro Tips for Making the Fresh Lemony Shrimp Avocado Tomato Salad
- For the freshest flavor, use wild-caught shrimp instead of farmed shrimp.
- Make sure your avocados are ripe but still firm to handle without mashing.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to elevate the flavor profile.
- Feel free to substitute lime juice for lemon juice if that’s your preference.
- Chill the salad for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
To create this marvelous Fresh Lemony Shrimp Avocado Tomato Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved (consider using both red and yellow)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Start by preparing the shrimp. In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and add in the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the heat, drain, and place the shrimp in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
Step 2: While the shrimp are cooling, prepare the salad dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
Step 3: Next, in a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocados, and chopped red onion. Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the avocados.
Step 4: Once the shrimp are cool, add them to the bowl with tomatoes and avocados. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. If you have any fresh herbs, sprinkle some on top for added flavor and garnish.
Step 6: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors to marry beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How can I make this salad vegan?
You can substitute shrimp with chickpeas or tofu, and the dressing can be switched to a vegan alternative using lemon juice and olive oil without the garlic.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, crusty bread, or can be enjoyed as a meal on its own.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, the avocado may brown over time.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare it fresh, but you can chop the veggies and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving to prevent the avocados from browning.
Conclusion
Fresh Lemony Shrimp Avocado Tomato Salad is a vibrant and fulfilling dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your palate. Not only is it simple to make, but the diverse flavors and textures are sure to make it a favorite. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, enjoying a light lunch, or wanting a healthy dinner option, this salad is an excellent solution. Try it out and savor the fresh ingredients that come together so perfectly in this refreshing dish!
