Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice
Quick sautéed shrimp served atop a refreshing avocado salsa and fluffy cauliflower rice with bright cilantro and lime, perfect for a Whole30 lunch. This whole30-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends fresh or frozen cauliflower rice, medium, diced ripe avocado, quartered cherry tomatoes 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 320 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16-20 count) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups, fresh or frozen cauliflower rice
- 1 medium, diced ripe avocado
- 1 cup, quartered cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup, finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped, plus extra for garnish fresh cilantro
- 3 tbsp, divided lime juice
- 3 tbsp, divided olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp, divided salt
- 1/2 tsp, divided black pepper
- 1/4 tsp, optional red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1 diced medium avocado, 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and gently toss to create the avocado salsa. Set aside.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp ground cumin, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then transfer to a plate.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and 4 cups cauliflower rice. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly golden. Stir in 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
- Step 5: To serve, spoon cauliflower rice onto plates, top with sautéed shrimp, and finish with a generous scoop of avocado salsa and extra cilantro garnish.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice?
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 Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice?
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 Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice 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.
Is Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.