This refreshing and protein-packed salad is bursting with bold flavors from lime, cilantro, and a touch of honey. Juicy shrimp are marinated in spices, seared to perfection, and paired with creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a tangy chili-lime dressing. Light yet satisfying, this dish makes the perfect low-carb lunch or summer dinner that’s as vibrant as it is nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Packed with protein and healthy fats
Low-carb and keto-friendly
Quick to make—ready in under 30 minutes
Fresh, zesty flavor perfect for spring and summer
Easily customizable with your favorite salad greens or veggies

Ingredients Breakdown

Shrimp & Marinade

1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined – Lean protein source; absorbs flavor well.
1 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing the shrimp.
Marinade/Dressing Option 1:
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Rich base for the marinade.
- Juice & zest of 1 lime – Adds bright, citrusy flavor.
- 1 tsp honey (optional) – Balances acidity with a hint of sweetness.
- ½ tsp cumin & ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds depth and warmth.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.

Salad Base

2 avocados, diced – Creamy texture and healthy fats.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Juicy, sweet contrast.
½ cucumber, sliced – Refreshing crunch.
¼ red onion, thinly sliced – Adds sharpness and color.
¼ cup cilantro, chopped – Bright, herbaceous freshness.
1 cup mixed greens (optional) – Adds bulk and additional nutrients.

Chili-Lime Dressing (Optional second dressing)

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper to taste

Tips and Tricks:

Use pre-cooked shrimp for an even faster prep time.
Chill the shrimp after cooking if serving this as a cold salad.
Dice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Variations and Customizations:

Add crumbled feta or cotija cheese for extra flavor.
Swap cilantro with fresh basil or parsley if you prefer milder herbs.
Toss in black beans or corn for a heartier Tex-Mex twist.
Serve over quinoa or couscous for a more filling grain-based salad.

Pairing Suggestions:

Pairs beautifully with grilled corn on the cob, fresh mango salsa, or crispy tortilla chips.
Serve with a sparkling lime water, iced green tea, or a margarita for a refreshing meal.

Storage Instructions:

Best served fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
Store the dressing separately and add just before serving to avoid soggy salad.

Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Zesty marinated shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp veggies tossed in a tangy chili-lime dressing—light, fresh, and protein-packed

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil, for sautéing
Marinade:
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, thinly sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup mixed greens (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice & zest of 1 lime
1 tsp honey (optional)
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp:

In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Add shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for 15–30 minutes.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Salad Base:

In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and mixed greens if using.

4. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, honey, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

5. Assemble the Salad:

Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with veggies.
Drizzle the lime vinaigrette over the top.
Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocados.
Serve immediately

Notes

This healthy shrimp avocado salad is not only packed with flavor but also aligns with popular diets like keto, paleo, and gluten-free. Perfect for meal prep or last-minute weeknight meals, it’s a refreshing, satisfying way to eat clean and stay full.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Sauté
Cuisine: American