How to Make a Mexican Shrimp and Avocado Salad
If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious dish, look no further than a Mexican shrimp and avocado salad. This delightful recipe combines the flavors of fresh shrimp, ripe avocados, and vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a vibrant dinner side. Follow this simple guide to create your own Mexican shrimp and avocado salad.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and let them cool.
Step 2: Cut the Vegetables
While the shrimp is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Dice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the red onion, and dice the cucumber. If you like a bit of heat, don't forget to mince the jalapeño pepper.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, diced cucumber, minced jalapeño, and cilantro. Gently toss the mixture together to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and the remaining olive oil. Pour this dressing over the salad and gently toss again until everything is well coated. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
This Mexican shrimp and avocado salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Serve it as a standalone dish, a filling for tacos, or alongside your favorite grilled meats.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chili powder or cumin to the dressing.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to customize the salad with other vegetables, like bell peppers or corn.
This Mexican shrimp and avocado salad not only bursts with flavor but is also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe at your next gathering, and watch it become a new favorite!