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Plump shrimp flavored with zesty citrus get paired up with silky avocado all piled high on crisp leafy greens It’s so fresh it tastes like sunshine on a plate Whenever I’m craving something that’s light but still fills me up this one does the trick It works for quick lunches chill dinners or easy meal prep and always feels a bit fancy
When I first put this salad together I wanted something cool and light but still satisfying It’s now my favorite when the week gets busy and always makes my pals happy
Vibrant Ingredients
- Shrimp with citrus: Sweet plump shrimp, best fresh or top-quality frozen, work great (I like size 31-40)
- Your favorite greens: Think tender leaves like spinach, arugula, lettuce, or any spring mix Look for perky, deep-green ones
- Olive oil (extra virgin): Brings smoothness and helps tie all the flavors together I often use lemon-infused oil for a boost
- Fresh citrus juice (lemon or orange): Gives a bright tang and makes the flavors pop Freshly squeezed makes all the difference
- Avocado: Adds creamy bites plus healthy fat Choose slightly soft but not mushy, so you can slice easily
- Shallot: Finely chopped for a mild kick and a savory touch Pick dry, firm ones with tight skins
- Toasted sliced almonds: For crunch and extra toasty flavor, grab golden brown ones
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper: Sprinkle for perfect flavor Fresh black pepper has the most zing
Simple How-To
- Finish with Avocado, Nuts, Shallots:
- Arrange sliced or cubed avocado on top, sprinkle minced shallot, and scatter over toasted almonds Add kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- Dress Things Up:
- Pour on some olive oil, squeeze juice from half a lemon or orange on everything, even drizzle leftover pan sauce from the shrimp if you have it Toss everything but don’t overmix—keep those greens happy
- Greens and Shrimp Step:
- In a big bowl, mix whatever greens you like with cooked shrimp Toss gently so you get a bit of each in every forkful
- Sear Those Shrimp:
- Pan-cook your citrusy shrimp till they're just pink all the way through Leftover shrimp works fine—either cold or warmed up
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I just love how citrus makes the shrimp super sweet Avocado is the real star in my book because it’s so creamy Mix that with those toasted almonds and I’m hooked It’s become a must-have in our house
Storing Made Easy
Store your greens and shrimp in different containers if you’re saving some for later Only mix when you’re about to eat For avocado, cut it right before serving or brush slices with citrus juice and seal them up for a few hours
Switching It Up
No almonds No problem—try toasted pecans or sunflower seeds instead You can use mixed greens, spinach, or even lettuce If you don’t have shallots, use a little red onion Lime juice is great too if that’s what’s handy
Ideas for Serving
It makes an awesome lunch fills you up for dinner or works great with a bowl of soup I sometimes toss on some grilled corn or orange slices if I want more color and flavor
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Where It Comes From
You’ll find salads like this along the US coast where fresh shrimp and citrus fruits are everywhere It’s especially common in California and the South—places where local veggies, avocados, and nuts are a big deal
Common Recipe Questions
- → Could I swap in a different green?
Absolutely! Pick whatever you’re into—arugula, crisp lettuce, spinach, or a spring mix, just go with what you vibe with for texture and taste.
- → How should I cook shrimp for this?
Just toss shrimp in a skillet with olive oil and a splash of citrus juice. You can throw them on the salad warm or chill them down first if you want.
- → Is it cool to prep ahead of time?
For sure! Get all your stuff ready upfront, but don’t put everything together or add dressing until you’re about to eat—it’ll keep your greens nice and crisp.
- → What citrus should I reach for?
Lemon or orange both taste great. Mix them up if you want deeper flavor, or use what you’ve already got lying around.
- → Any other toppings that work?
Yeah! Throw on extras like little tomatoes, cucumber slices, or feta crumbles if you want more flavor or fun textures.