Creamy Shrimp Avocado Salad

Creamy Shrimp Avocado Salad is a fresh, flavourful and satisfying dish made with tender cooked shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp red onion and fresh herbs tossed in a smooth lime dressing. Greek yogurt and mayonnaise create a rich, creamy base, while Dijon mustard, garlic and smoked paprika add savoury depth and a bright kick of flavour.

Ready in just 35 minutes, including a short chilling time, this easy salad is perfect for a light lunch, quick dinner, appetiser or refreshing side dish. Serve it chilled on its own, over crisp lettuce, with toasted bread or alongside crackers for an easy meal that feels fresh and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 35 minutes.
• Packed with approximately 29 g of protein per serving.
• Creamy without relying entirely on mayonnaise.
• Fresh lime juice adds a bright, refreshing finish.
• Easy to serve in several different ways.
• No cooking is required when using cooked shrimp.

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 large avocados, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved, optional
• Lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

• Small mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula or large spoon

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Avocado Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and minced garlic.
2. Add the fresh lime juice and smoked paprika.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Whisk until the dressing is smooth, creamy and well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

5. Place the cooked shrimp in a large mixing bowl.
6. Add the diced avocado, finely diced red onion and chopped cilantro or parsley.
7. Add the halved cherry tomatoes if using.
8. Gently toss the ingredients together.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Dressing

9. Pour the prepared dressing over the shrimp and avocado mixture.
10. Gently fold everything together until the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated.
11. Take care not to overmix so the avocado pieces remain intact.

Step 4: Chill the Salad

12. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
13. This short chilling time allows the flavours to come together while keeping the salad fresh.

Step 5: Serve

14. Remove the salad from the refrigerator.
15. Garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
16. Serve chilled on its own, over lettuce, with toasted bread or alongside crackers.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy shrimp and avocado salad is versatile enough for lunch, dinner or entertaining. Try serving it:

• Over crisp lettuce leaves
• With toasted bread
• Alongside crackers
• As a light appetiser
• As part of a fresh salad platter

Helpful Tips

• Fold gently: Avocado can become soft when overmixed, so gently fold the ingredients together.
• Use fresh lime juice: It provides the bright citrus flavour that balances the creamy dressing.
• Chill before serving: The 15–20 minute resting time allows the flavours to blend.
• Add tomatoes if desired: Cherry tomatoes bring extra freshness and colour to the salad.
• Choose fresh herbs: Cilantro or parsley both work well and add a fresh finishing touch.

Easy Variations

• Make it extra fresh: Add additional lime juice and fresh herbs.
• Add more vegetables: Cucumber or extra cherry tomatoes can add additional freshness.
• Use different herbs: Swap cilantro for parsley depending on your preference.
• Add some heat: A pinch of chilli flakes can complement the smoked paprika and lime.

Storage

Because the salad contains avocado, it is best enjoyed fresh. If storing leftovers, cover tightly and refrigerate. Gently stir before serving and add a little fresh lime juice if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 365 per serving
• Protein: Approximately 29 g per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Use cooked shrimp that has been properly thawed, peeled and deveined before adding it to the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It can be prepared ahead for the short chilling period specified in the recipe. Because avocado is included, it is best enjoyed fresh.

Can I replace the Greek yogurt?

The recipe uses plain Greek yogurt together with mayonnaise to create the creamy dressing. You can adjust the balance according to your preference.

Can I leave out the mayonnaise?

Yes, although the dressing will have a different texture and flavour if the mayonnaise is omitted.

What herbs work best?

Fresh cilantro or parsley are both included as options and provide a fresh flavour that works well with the lime and shrimp.

How should I serve creamy shrimp avocado salad?

Serve it chilled on its own, over lettuce, with toasted bread or alongside crackers.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Shrimp Avocado Salad is an easy combination of tender shrimp, buttery avocado, fresh vegetables and a creamy lime dressing. The Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic and smoked paprika create a rich yet balanced dressing, while fresh herbs and lime bring brightness to every bite. Whether served as a light lunch, appetiser or refreshing dinner, this salad is quick, satisfying and wonderfully simple to prepare.

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