Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing
A refreshing, protein-packed salad with tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon dressing—ideal for a light yet satisfying lunch. This mediterranean-inspired salads (whole30) ready in about 21 minutes blends shrimp, diced avocado, juiced lemon into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 360 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 8 oz shrimp
- 1, diced avocado
- 8 oz, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces asparagus
- 1/2, juiced lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp, chopped fresh dill
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 1 minute). Add 8 oz shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until opaque, then transfer to a plate.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 8 oz trimmed asparagus pieces and cook for 4 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3: Whisk together 1/2 lemon juiced, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper in a small bowl.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups baby spinach, 1 diced avocado, and the cooked asparagus. Add the lemon-dill dressing and toss gently. Top with the cooked shrimp and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 21 minutes (15 min prep + 6 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Avocado-Asparagus Shrimp Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Quick to prep and the results are amazing. A real keeper.
