Description
This avocado shrimp salad recipe with lettuce and bell pepper is THE BEST healthy salad meal. Seasoned shrimp, crisp lettuce, avocado, and vegetables are tossed in a creamy Old Bay dressing. Perfect for lunch or any night of the week!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp & Seasoning:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, raw, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Old Bay Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha (or other hot sauce, adjust to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon low sodium Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon water
- Kosher salt (optional, to taste)
For Salad Assembly:
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (Romaine recommended)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 green onion (scallion), sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Sriracha, lime juice, Old Bay seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of water until smooth. Taste and season with salt, if desired. Set aside.
- Season Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl or shallow plate, combine the shrimp with the paprika, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes total. Season lightly with salt and pepper during the last minute of cooking. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet to a plate and set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped yellow onion, sliced green onion, sliced avocado, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Add Shrimp and Dressing: Add the cooked shrimp to the salad bowl. Drizzle with the prepared Old Bay dressing.
- Toss and Serve: Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Serve immediately. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning, if desired.
Notes
- Shrimp: Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Adjust cook time slightly based on shrimp size. Be careful not to overcook.
- Dressing Base: Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can be used. Greek yogurt provides a tangier, lighter option.
- Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning. Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of your brand and your preference.
- Avocado: Add avocado just before tossing and serving to prevent browning.
- Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh after assembling. If prepping ahead, store the cooked shrimp, vegetables, and dressing separately and combine just before serving.