Shrimp and Avocado Summer Salad

As the days grow longer and the sun warmer, the craving for light, refreshing meals becomes almost irresistible. Enter the Shrimp and Avocado Summer Salad, a dish that encapsulates the essence of summer in every bite. This recipe not only promises a burst of fresh flavors but also brings a splash of color to your table, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an outdoor gathering with friends.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, tails removed and cut into thirds
• 1 large avocado, peeled and diced or sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• A few big handfuls of arugula or another tender salad green
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, grated or finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

The combination of creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and crisp vegetables creates a delightful texture contrast, while the lemony dressing adds just the right amount of zing to tie all the components together beautifully.

Directions: Simple Steps to a Stunning Salad

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by ensuring your shrimp are ready to go by removing the tails and cutting them into thirds. This makes them the perfect size to mingle with the other ingredients and ensures every forkful is a balanced bite.
2. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well blended. This dressing will not only marinate the shrimp but also dress the entire salad, infusing it with vibrant flavors.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: Pour 3 tablespoons of the dressing over the shrimp in a large bowl. Toss them gently to ensure they’re well coated, then refrigerate to marinate. This step allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors, elevating the overall taste of the salad.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In another large bowl, gather the arugula, avocado, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. The varied textures and colors of these ingredients make the salad not only tasty but also visually appealing.
5. Bring It All Together: Add the marinated shrimp to the bowl with the salad greens and veggies. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything gently to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Season to Perfection: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The right seasoning will make the flavors pop and bring the salad to life.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a complete meal on its own, perfect for those balmy summer evenings when you crave something light yet satisfying. It can also serve as an elegant starter for a more elaborate dinner. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, to complement the fresh flavors of the salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

This Shrimp and Avocado Summer Salad is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. Dive into summer with this refreshing, flavorful salad and let it become a staple in your seasonal culinary repertoire.

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