If you’re craving something fresh, zesty, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine juicy pan-seared shrimp kissed by bright citrus notes, layered over a bed of crisp greens and creamy avocado, all finished with crunchy toasted almonds and a hint of shallot punch. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that feels both light and satisfying, making it ideal for a quick lunch or an impressive dinner salad that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several avocado halves are spread evenly on a white marbled surface, each cut side facing up. Some of the avocados still have their large brown seeds in the middle, while others show empty yellow-green pits. The flesh of the avocados is light green with a smooth texture, surrounded by a dark green, bumpy outer skin. The arrangement is casual, with the halves placed close but not touching, creating a fresh and natural look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may seem simple but each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious medley of flavors and colors. From the bright citrus that awakens the shrimp to the creamy avocado that cools everything down, every element is essential to the success of this salad.

1 pound medium Pan-Seared Citrus Shrimp: The star of the dish, bringing juicy, citrus-infused protein with a light sear that adds texture.
8 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, lettuce, or spring mix): Provides a fresh, vibrant base full of color and earthy balance.
Extra virgin olive oil (preferably fruity or lemon-flavored): Offers richness and a subtle, fruity note that ties the salad together.
Juice of 1/2 lemon or 1/2 orange: Adds the essential citrus brightness that livens up all the ingredients.
1 avocado (sliced or diced): Creamy and buttery texture that offsets the acidity perfectly.
1 shallot (minced): Gives a mild onion flavor with a slight sweetness to deepen the taste profile.
4 ounces sliced almonds (toasted): Adds a crunchy contrast that makes every bite exciting.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Seasonings to enhance and balance every flavor in the salad.

How to Make Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by cooking your medium shrimp with a quick pan-sear to lock in moisture and infuse that lovely citrus flavor. If you’re working with leftovers, you can gently warm them or even serve them chilled for a refreshing twist. The key is to have shrimp that’s flavorful but tender.

Step 2: Toss the Greens and Shrimp

In a large bowl, add your fresh mixed greens and combine them with the warm or chilled shrimp. Tossing these together gets the flavors mingling early and helps coat the greens slightly with any citrus zest clinging to the shrimp.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over your salad, then add a squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice. If you have some flavorful sauce left from cooking the shrimp, add a little here too—it’s a magical layer of depth that enhances every bite. Toss everything gently to evenly distribute the dressing without bruising the delicate greens or avocado.

Step 4: Add Avocado, Shallots, and Almonds

Now sprinkle in your sliced or diced avocado, minced shallot, and toasted almonds. These ingredients are the cherry on top, adding creaminess, a hint of sharpness, and a satisfying crunch. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then give everything one final gentle toss before serving.

How to Serve Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe

The dish is a fresh shrimp salad served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The base layer consists of dark green leafy spinach, crisp and slightly curly, scattered evenly across the bowl. On top of the spinach are tender orange-pink shrimp, slightly curled, mixed evenly throughout. Alongside the shrimp, there are thick slices of bright green avocado with a smooth, creamy texture. Small pieces of chopped red onion and thin slices of light almond nuts are sprinkled over the salad, adding pops of color and different textures. The salad is lightly seasoned with small flecks of black pepper and green herbs. The overall look is fresh, colorful, and inviting, with a mix of soft and crunchy elements. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can elevate this salad beautifully, lending a fragrant burst that complements the citrus shrimp. A few twists of extra black pepper or a light dusting of chili flakes can add subtle warmth if you prefer a little kick.

Side Dishes

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or a side of lightly seasoned quinoa for added heartiness. For a truly Mediterranean vibe, consider serving with olives or a small dish of hummus for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, present the salad in elegant individual glasses layered with shrimp and avocado chunks to highlight the colors. Or arrange the salad on a large platter with lemon or orange slices artfully placed for a bright, inviting look that makes guests eager to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately for best results. Keep the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store avocado and greens separately to prevent browning and sogginess—combine right before serving.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended as the avocado and greens do not freeze well. However, you can freeze cooked shrimp separately for future salads or dishes.

Reheating

If warming the shrimp used in the Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking and dryness. Avoid reheating the entire salad to preserve the freshness of the greens and avocado.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before pan-searing. This helps ensure a nice sear and that delicious citrus flavor shines through.

What greens work best in this Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe?

Mixed greens like arugula, spinach, spring mix, or even butter lettuce all work wonderfully. Each brings a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to mix and match based on your preference.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, with a little care. Keep the components like avocado and greens separate until just before eating to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Shrimp can be prepped in advance for quick assembly.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Certainly! Adding segments of grapefruit or mandarin oranges can add another layer of bright citrus flavor and visually pop the salad even more.

What can I use instead of sliced almonds?

If you have nut allergies or want a different crunch, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make excellent substitutes, adding their own unique texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give this Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe a try because it brings such a fresh, lively vibe to the table with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but comes together in a flash, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. Enjoy every bite of this colorful, delicious salad!

Citrus Shrimp and Avocado Salad Recipe