Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad – Fresh, Healthy & Flavorful Mediterranean Salad

Few salads capture the essence of fresh, wholesome Mediterranean flavors quite like a Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad. This vibrant dish combines tender, chilled shrimp with creamy avocado and crisp veggies, all tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with nutrients, and perfect for warm days or anytime you want a healthy, delicious meal with minimal fuss. Whether served as a refreshing lunch or an elegant starter, this salad is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This salad hits all the right notes: it’s cooling, packed with protein, and rich in healthy fats thanks to the avocado. The shrimp adds a subtle sweetness and satisfying texture, while the fresh herbs and citrus dressing brighten every bite. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and full of wholesome ingredients that support a balanced diet. Plus, it comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick meal prep or entertaining guests.

What You’ll Need – Ingredients List

To make a delicious and vibrant Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad, gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential. Each component brings its own unique texture and flavor, creating a perfectly balanced and nutritious dish. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to whip up this refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad.

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
  
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  
• 1 small cucumber, diced
  
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  
• Juice of 1 lemon
  
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  
• 1 clove garlic, minced
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  

Nutritional Benefits at a Glance

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. This vibrant dish offers lean protein from shrimp, heart-healthy fats from creamy avocado, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from fresh Mediterranean ingredients. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that supports a balanced diet while delighting your taste buds.

• Calories: ~320 per serving (based on 4 servings)
  
• Protein: 25g
  
• Fat: 20g (mostly healthy fats from avocado and olive oil)
  
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  
• Fiber: 6g
  
• Sodium: 300mg (can vary based on shrimp and added salt)
  

How Much Time You’ll Need

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  
• No cooking required (use pre-cooked shrimp)
  
• Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Make Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad – Step-by-Step

Making Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a light, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re preparing a healthy lunch, a refreshing side, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this step-by-step guide will help you assemble the perfect Mediterranean-inspired salad every time.

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
   
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
   
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
   
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley and cilantro on top for a burst of fresh flavor.
   
5. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes for a cooler salad experience.
   

Ingredient Swaps and Custom Variations

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or what ingredients you have available. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out herbs, or try different dressings, this fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired salad can adapt to suit any palate or occasion.

• Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
  
• Add diced bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.
  
• Use cooked and chilled scallops or crab meat instead of shrimp.
  
• Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
  
• Toss in some crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty twist.
  

How to Store and Serve Leftovers

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is best enjoyed fresh to savor its vibrant flavors and crisp textures. However, if you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures the salad stays tasty and safe to eat for up to two days. Keep the salad chilled in an airtight container, and add any dressings or delicate ingredients like avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
  
• Keep avocado and dressing separate if possible to avoid browning and sogginess.
  
• Give the salad a gentle toss before serving again.
  

What to Serve with Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the creamy richness of avocado. Perfect for warm days or as a light meal any time of year, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Easy to prepare and wonderfully healthy, it’s a versatile option that pairs well with many dishes or can stand alone as a satisfying, balanced meal.

• Serve with crusty whole grain bread or pita on the side.
  
• Pair with grilled fish or chicken for a heartier dinner.
  
• Add alongside a bowl of Mediterranean lentil soup for a light lunch.
  
• Enjoy as a refreshing appetizer at summer barbecues or picnics.
  

Pro Tips for a Flavorful Mediterranean Salad

To truly elevate your Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad, a few simple techniques can make all the difference. From selecting the freshest ingredients to balancing flavors perfectly, these pro tips will help you create a salad that’s bursting with vibrant Mediterranean taste and pleasing textures. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these insights ensure your salad turns out fresh, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible every time.

• Use the freshest shrimp you can find for the best texture and flavor.
  
• Ripe but firm avocados hold their shape better in the salad.
  
• Let the salad rest for a few minutes after tossing so the flavors meld.
  
• Adjust seasoning after tossing since avocado and shrimp absorb flavors differently.
  
• Serve chilled for a refreshing, palate-cleansing dish.
  

Final Thoughts – Fresh, Healthy, and Delicious

This Cold Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a shining example of how simple ingredients can combine into something spectacular. It’s light, nutrient-packed, and bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that nourish and satisfy. Whether for a quick weekday meal or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to impress your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and share your delicious creations with #ColdShrimpAvocadoSalad to inspire others.

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