Avocado and shrimp salad

Avocado and shrimp salad is a light yet satisfying dish that combines creamy avocado with tender shrimp and fresh vegetables. It's perfect as a starter or a main course. Here’s a delicious recipe to make this refreshing salad:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (30g) fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Season the Shrimp:

   • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

   • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Alternatively, you can grill them.

3. Cool:

   • Remove the shrimp from the heat and let them cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Avocado:

   • Slice the avocados just before serving to prevent browning. You can also dice them if preferred.

2. Cherry Tomatoes:

   • Halve the cherry tomatoes.

3. Cucumber:

   • Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.

4. Red Onion:

   • Thinly slice the red onion. If the raw onion flavor is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes, then drain.

3. Make the Dressing:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

1. Combine Salad Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, gently toss the cooked shrimp, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

2. Add Dressing:

   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.

3. Garnish:

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

5. Serve:

1. Serve Immediately:
   • Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: To prepare ahead of time, cook the shrimp and prepare the vegetables separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to keep the avocados from browning.
• Add Crunch: For added texture, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds.
• Variations: Feel free to add additional ingredients like corn, black beans, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy your avocado and shrimp salad—a perfect blend of creamy, zesty, and savory elements for a delightful meal!