Name: Shrimp Avocado Salad (Creamy & Refreshing!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (thawed, tails and shells removed); 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking shrimp); 1 heart romaine lettuce, chopped; 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped (or ¾ English cucumber); 1 medium avocado, peeled and cubed (ripe); Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup olive oil; Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tbsp); ½ tsp white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1–2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp honey; ½ tsp cumin; 2 tbsp fresh mint; ¼ cup fresh dill; 1 tbsp water (to thin); Salt and pepper, to taste

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Shrimp Avocado Salad is a light, refreshing, and protein-packed dish that combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy yogurt-herb dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, healthy dinner, or elegant side dish, this salad is as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A wholesome, high-protein salad with healthy fats from avocado
The yogurt dressing is creamy yet light and refreshing
Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days
Fresh herbs like dill and mint add vibrant flavor
Naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for different diets
A colorful, restaurant-quality dish you can make at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound large shrimp (thawed, tails and shells removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking shrimp)
1 heart romaine lettuce, chopped
2 Persian or mini cucumbers, chopped (or about ¾ of an English cucumber)
1 medium-large avocado, peeled and cubed (ripe)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Yogurt Dressing:
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
½ teaspoon white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons fresh mint
¼ cup fresh dill
1 tablespoon water (to thin)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook shrimp: Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a large pan over medium-high and cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Work in batches if needed, transferring cooked shrimp to a clean bowl.
Make dressing: Add yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, honey, cumin, mint, dill, and water to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assemble salad: Arrange chopped romaine as the base, then layer with cucumbers, cooked shrimp, and cubed avocado.
Toss and serve: Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Garnish with extra dill or mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Grain Bowl Style: Add quinoa, farro, or couscous for a heartier meal.
Extra Veggies: Mix in cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the dressing.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty variation.
Different Protein: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.

Storage/Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado and yogurt-based dressing.
If storing, keep salad components separate: cooked shrimp and dressing in airtight containers, up to 2 days in the fridge.
Assemble and toss with dressing just before serving.
Do not freeze.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw completely before cooking for best texture.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, for the best eating experience, devein the shrimp after removing shells.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely—the yogurt dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What if I don’t have fresh dill or mint?

You can substitute with parsley or cilantro, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use another type of lettuce?

Yes, butter lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens all work well.

How do I prevent avocado from browning?

Add avocado just before serving, or toss cubes lightly in lemon juice.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes, it’s rich in protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables while being lower in calories.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the dressing.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with crusty bread, pita, or a light grain side like quinoa.

Can I serve this salad chilled?

Yes, you can chill the shrimp and dressing before assembly for a refreshing cold salad.

Conclusion

Shrimp Avocado Salad with creamy yogurt dressing is a flavorful, satisfying, and healthy dish that’s quick to prepare and versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal, a side, or part of a larger spread, its fresh flavors and creamy dressing will make it a favorite on your menu.

Maggie