Description
This vibrant salad pairs lightly spiced, pan-seared shrimp with creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and fresh herbs—all tossed in a bright lime-honey dressing. Quick to make and bursting with contrasting textures, it’s the perfect light lunch or dinner that always impresses.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) Raw shrimp peeled &; deveined (Juicy, tender seafood)
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil (Light fruity richness)
- 1/2 tsp Ground cumin (Warm earthy depth)
- 1/2 Chili powder (Mild smoky heat)
- Salt & pepper (To taste Balanced seasoning)
- 1 Large avocado diced (Creamy, buttery body)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved (Juicy sweetness, vibrant color)
- 1/2 small Red onion finely sliced (Sharp crunch, mild bite)
- 1/2 Cucumber diced (Cool, crisp freshness)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro chopped (Bright, herbal lift)
- 4 cups Mixed greens or romaine chopped (Tender, leafy base)
For the Dressing:
- 2 Juice of Zesty Fresh lime juice (tangy citrus flavor)
- 2 Tbsp Olive oil (Smooth emulsion)
- 1 Garlic clove minced (Pungent, savory undertone)
- 1 tsp Honey optional (Subtle sweetness for balance)
Instructions
Season & Sear Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 Tbsp olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Sear shrimp 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Whisk the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, and honey (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Prep Salad Components:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, cherry tomato halves, sliced red onion, diced cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
Assemble & Toss:
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Add seared shrimp on top and toss once more just to distribute.
Serve:
- Divide among plates or bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a lime wedge, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Prep all veggies and dressing up to 4 hours ahead; store separately.
Sear shrimp just before serving. - Spice Level: Increase chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for variation.
- Add-Ins: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled queso fresco for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Seafood
Nutrition
- Calories: 310
