Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful dish that bursts with tropical flavors and a fresh, creamy texture, this Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining succulent shrimp with sweet mango and buttery avocado, it’s a vibrant, no-cook meal that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or craving a quick, healthy dinner, this salad brings together simple, wholesome ingredients for a refreshing experience that your taste buds will celebrate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe plays a starring role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From the juicy sweetness of ripe mango to the creamy softness of avocado, every component is thoughtfully chosen to make this salad irresistibly good.
- Cooked shrimp: One pound of peeled and deveined shrimp adds a mild, sweet seafood flavor and satisfying protein to the salad.
- Ripe mango: The diced mango brings a juicy sweetness and vibrant golden hue that brightens the dish.
- Ripe avocado: Creamy and rich, diced avocado balances the sweetness of the mango with smooth texture.
- Red onion: Finely chopped, red onion adds a pleasant bite and subtle sharpness that enhances the overall freshness.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro contributes a burst of herbal brightness, giving the salad a lively finish.
- Fresh lime juice: Two tablespoons of lime juice provide the perfect tangy zing that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon of olive oil adds a light richness and helps marry the ingredients seamlessly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance every flavor in the bowl.
- Optional jalapeño: Finely diced for those who enjoy a little heat, the jalapeño introduces a subtle spicy kick without overpowering the salad.
How to Make Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the cooked shrimp, diced mango, avocado, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro into a large mixing bowl. This colorful blend forms the base of the Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe, and mixing these ingredients gently ensures every bite is loaded with that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing is the secret to tying all the elements of the salad together, adding a bright and zesty finish that enhances the natural sweetness of the mango and creaminess of the avocado.
Step 3: Toss and Taste
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together, taking care not to mash the avocado. The goal is to coat the ingredients evenly without compromising their beautiful textures. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—sometimes just a pinch more salt or a squeeze more lime juice can transform the dish from great to unforgettable.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
This Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe is wonderful served straight away for a fresh, vibrant bite. Alternatively, chilling it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes lets the flavors mingle and deepen, turning it into a refreshing treat perfect for warm days or entertaining guests.
How to Serve Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh garnishes can elevate your salad in both flavor and presentation. Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of jalapeño on top for a pop of color and zing. A wedge of lime on the side invites guests to add an extra splash of brightness. Toasted pepitas or chopped nuts can provide a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy avocado.
Side Dishes
This salad works as a stunning light main dish or pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think crusty artisan bread, garlic roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing—each complements the tropical, fresh notes of the Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and elegant touch, serve the salad in individual lettuce cups or hollowed-out avocado halves. It also makes a fantastic topping for crispy tortilla chips, perfect as a vibrant appetizer or snack. For a more hearty meal, layer it over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa to add extra nutrients and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown over time, so consuming the salad within a day is best to enjoy the freshest taste and most appealing color.
Freezing
Due to the delicate nature of avocado and the freshness of the shrimp, this Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe is not suitable for freezing. Freezing could change the texture and flavor of these ingredients, resulting in a less enjoyable dish upon thawing.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warm element, consider warming the shrimp separately and adding them to a freshly prepared mango and avocado mix to preserve the best textures and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before mixing. Using cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp makes assembly quick and easy without compromising flavor.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Using fresh lime juice in the dressing helps prevent browning, but avocado will naturally oxidize over time. To keep it looking fresh, prepare the salad close to serving time or cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the salad.
Is this salad spicy?
The base recipe is mild and fresh, highlighting sweet and creamy flavors. Adding diced jalapeño introduces a gentle heat, which you can adjust or omit depending on your spice preference.
Can I substitute mango with another fruit?
Yes! Pineapple or even cucumber can be great alternatives, adding a tropical twist or refreshing crunch, respectively. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to maintain balance with the other ingredients.
What if I want to make this vegan or vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the shrimp and consider adding chickpeas or firm tofu for protein. The mango and avocado combination still shines beautifully with these plant-based alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in the most delightful way. Its bright colors, juicy sweetness, and creamy textures make it a go-to recipe whenever you want a healthy dish that feels like a special treat. Give it a try, and you’ll likely find yourself coming back to it again and again—because some flavors just never get old.
Print
Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad that combines succulent cooked shrimp with sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a light main course or appetizer, this no-cook salad balances tropical flavors with freshness and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely diced for heat
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shrimp, diced mango, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Gently stir to combine the main salad components.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. This dressing will add a bright, tangy flavor to the salad.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocado so the salad keeps its texture and vibrant colors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add additional salt, pepper, or jalapeño if you want extra heat. The seasoning can be adjusted to your preferences.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest texture or chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld more deeply before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day it’s made to preserve freshness and texture.
- For a tropical twist, try adding pineapple chunks or diced cucumber to enhance the flavor.
- Serve it over a bed of mixed greens, in crisp lettuce cups, or with tortilla chips for a versatile and light meal or appetizer option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American
