This vibrant shrimp avocado salad is a fresh and satisfying bowl packed with bold flavors, crisp vegetables, and high-quality protein. Spicy pan-seared shrimp, creamy avocado, tender eggs, and crunchy radishes come together beautifully, all tied with a rich dressing that brings depth and balance. Each ingredient adds its own texture—soft, crunchy, creamy—and the colors alone feel restaurant-worthy. This is the kind of salad that feels light yet filling, perfect for clean eating, meal prep, or a refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Shrimp
- 12–14 medium shrimp, cleaned & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp lemon juice
For the Salad Base
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- ½ cup radish slices
- 1 cup chopped lettuce or mixed greens
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
For the Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Method
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry to achieve a good sear. In a bowl, toss them with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium-high and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred. Add a squeeze of lemon and set aside.
2. Prepare the Eggs
Boil the eggs for 8–9 minutes for a firm yolk (like the image) or 6–7 minutes for a creamier center. Peel and slice into halves or quarters.
3. Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and glossy. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad
On a large bowl or platter, arrange the lettuce as the base. Add the shrimp, avocado slices, eggs, cucumber, radishes, and cherry tomatoes in neat sections. Drizzle the dressing over the center and let it naturally flow across the ingredients for a beautiful presentation.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and extra pepper. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Chef’s Tips (Professional)
✔ Perfect Shrimp Every Time
Do not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding steams the shrimp instead of searing it, preventing that delicious golden crust.
✔ Get Bright Green Avocado Slices
Cut the avocado last to keep it from oxidizing, or lightly brush with lemon juice.
✔ Sharper Crunch, Better Texture
Soak sliced radishes and cucumbers in ice water for 10 minutes for extra crispiness.
✔ Boost the Dressing
Add a teaspoon of tahini or Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer texture.
✔ Meal Prep Tip
Keep dressing separate until serving. This prevents the greens from wilting.