Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Bright and refreshing salad featuring seared shrimp and creamy avocado, dressed in a zesty cilantro-citrus vinaigrette. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 21 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, large avocado, diced, mixed salad greens 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 270 calories and feeds 4, 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 6 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 270 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp orange juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/8 tsp red chili flakes (if using) until emulsified. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove from heat.
  3. Step 3: In a large salad bowl, combine 4 cups mixed salad greens with 1 large diced avocado. Add the cooked shrimp on top.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle the cilantro-citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, serving immediately for a fresh and bright meal.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro 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 Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro 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 Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro 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 Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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.

What goes well with Citrus-Infused Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro Dressing?

Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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