Avocado and Shrimp Salad Delight

This avocado and shrimp salad combines the freshness of greens with juicy shrimp, creamy mozzarella, and tangy capers for a flavorful dish. It's a perfect blend of textures and flavors, incorporating sweet cherry tomatoes and the buttery goodness of avocado, topped with a zesty lemon dressing. Easy to prepare, this salad is ideal for light lunches or as a starter. It's not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice. You can experiment with different types of greens, like Chinese cabbage or salad leaves, to add variety or use as per availability. The simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhances the natural flavors without overpowering the ingredients. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad can be prepared in advance and chilled, allowing the flavors to meld. Enjoy it on a warm day, or personalize it with added garnishes like capers or nuts. Suitable for those who appreciate a mix of textures and fresh flavors, it's bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Salad leaves or Chinese cabbage
Peeled shrimp
Cherry tomatoes
Mozzarella cheese
Capers
Avocado
Half a small lemon

Spices & Sauces:

Salt
Pepper
Olive oil

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 5 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by peeling and slicing the avocado into bite-sized pieces. Place them into a large salad bowl.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the avocado.
Cut the mozzarella cheese into larger chunks and add them to the bowl.
Tear or chop the salad leaves or Chinese cabbage into smaller pieces before adding them to your salad mixture.
Drain any excess liquid from the peeled shrimp before adding them to the bowl with the rest of the ingredients.
To prepare the dressing, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until blended.
Pour the homemade dressing over the salad ingredients, ensuring each component is well-coated.
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients and evenly distribute the dressing across the mixture.
Refrigerate the salad for about an hour or until chilled to allow flavors to meld together.
Once ready to serve, sprinkle capers generously over the top for a burst of additional flavor.
Feel free to add extra ingredients or garnishes according to your personal taste, such as nuts or more capers.
This salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors that come together beautifully.
The juicy shrimp complements the creamy avocado and mozzarella perfectly.
Cherry tomatoes add a lovely pop of color and natural sweetness.
The homemade lemon dressing adds a burst of tanginess, enhancing all the flavors in the bowl.
Enjoy this light yet satisfying salad as a healthy lunch or appetizer.
It can be stored for up to one day if you prepare it in advance.
This dish is perfect for impressing guests due to its appetizing presentation and robust flavor.
Experiment with other spices or herbs for an interesting mix of flavors.
Enjoy your flavorful Avocado and Shrimp Salad with family and friends!

Tips

Substitutions: Swap out shrimp for grilled chicken for different protein options.
Technique: Ensure ingredients are evenly cut for uniform flavor distribution.
Storage: Keep the dressing separate if the salad is made ahead to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 23g
Fats: 22g
Carbs: 12g

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute shrimp with chickpeas or beans.
Spicy: Add chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Vegan: Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices.
Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine for a sophisticated meal.
Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro for an aromatic touch.

Best Places

Le Bernardin – Known for exceptional seafood, it's a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York City, USA.
Noma – Offers a unique Nordic twist on classic dishes. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Gaggan – An innovative take on traditional Indian cuisine. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
Osteria Francescana – Known for its modern Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Eleven Madison Park – A luxurious dining experience with bold flavors. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York City, USA.
The Test Kitchen – Offers a creative culinary experience. Location: Shop 104a Waterkant Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
El Celler de Can Roca – Family-run restaurant offering avant-garde dishes. Location: Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
Quintonil – Known for vibrant Mexican flavors in a contemporary setting. Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
Pujol – Celebrates Mexican culture with a refined dining approach. Location: Tennyson 133, Mexico City, Mexico.
Mugaritz – Provides an experimental gastronomic adventure. Location: Aldura Aldea, San Sebastian, Spain.