Sautéed Shrimp with Avocado Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 320 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

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.