Shrimp Salad with Mango and Avocado: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight

Shrimp salad with mango and avocado is a refreshing, nutritious dish that combines the sweet, savory, and creamy textures of shrimp, mango, and avocado. This salad is perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or as an elegant appetizer for dinner parties. In this article, we’ll walk you through the benefits of the ingredients, how to prepare this delicious dish, and tips to customize it to suit your taste.

Why Choose Shrimp Salad with Mango and Avocado?

A Nutritious Powerhouse
Shrimp, mango, and avocado all bring a wealth of nutritional benefits to the table. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and selenium, while mangoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Avocados, known for their healthy fats, contribute fiber, potassium, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Combining these ingredients makes this salad a nutrient-dense option that’s both light and satisfying.

Refreshing and Flavorful
What sets this salad apart is the incredible flavor profile. The sweetness of the mango complements the creamy avocado and the savory, succulent shrimp, creating a well-balanced, refreshing dish. It’s the perfect mix of textures and tastes that can uplift any meal.

Ingredients for Shrimp Salad with Mango and Avocado

To make this easy shrimp salad, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1-2 limes (for juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick

Dressing Options

For added flavor, you can prepare a light citrus vinaigrette or even a creamy dressing with yogurt or mayo. Here’s a quick and easy citrus vinaigrette recipe:

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Begin by cooking the shrimp. Boil or sauté the shrimp in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long on heat. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango and Avocado

While the shrimp cool, dice the mango and avocado. Be gentle with the avocado to preserve its shape. The mango should be ripe but firm enough to hold its texture in the salad. Combine the mango and avocado in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add Fresh Vegetables

Next, add the diced red onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro to the bowl. If you enjoy a bit of heat, finely chop a small jalapeño pepper and add it to the mixture.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Once the shrimp have cooled, add them to the bowl with the mango, avocado, and vegetables. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the lime juice and oil.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

For the best flavor and texture, serve this shrimp salad immediately. It pairs well with leafy greens, or you can serve it with tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy twist.

Customizing Your Shrimp Salad

One of the best things about shrimp salad with mango and avocado is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Make it a Full Meal
To turn this salad into a heartier meal, consider adding a grain like quinoa, farro, or couscous. These grains add bulk to the salad while keeping it light and healthy. You can also serve the shrimp salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for added texture and nutrients.

Add More Vegetables
If you’re a fan of crunch, feel free to add more vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or even shredded carrots. Each of these ingredients adds a refreshing bite that pairs well with the other flavors in the salad.

Protein Alternatives
While shrimp is the star of this dish, you can swap it out for other proteins if needed. Grilled chicken or tofu are excellent alternatives for those looking to mix things up. If you want to stick with seafood, try using grilled scallops or even crab meat for a different take on this recipe.

Health Benefits of Shrimp, Mango, and Avocado

Shrimp: Low in Calories, High in Protein
Shrimp is a great low-calorie protein source. A 3-ounce serving provides about 20 grams of protein and only 84 calories, making it ideal for weight-conscious individuals. It’s also rich in iodine, which supports thyroid function, and omega-3 fatty acids for heart health.

Mango: Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Mangoes are packed with vitamins A and C, which boost your immune system and promote skin health. Their antioxidants help fight inflammation and can protect against certain types of cancer.

Avocado: Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocados are known for their high content of monounsaturated fats, which can reduce bad cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health. They also provide fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Tips for Storing Shrimp Salad

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, be mindful that the avocado may brown slightly due to oxidation. To prevent this, you can add extra lime juice before storing it. For best results, enjoy the salad fresh.

Conclusion

Shrimp salad with mango and avocado is a simple, yet gourmet dish that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients into a meal bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a show-stopping side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and tastes!