If you’re searching for a dish that captures the essence of summer on your fork, look no further than this Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad. Bright, colorful, and bursting with tropical flavors, this salad pairs juicy shrimp with sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a zippy lime dressing for a meal that’s as delicious as it is refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard lunch, need a light main course for a weeknight, or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this is the salad that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, each one shines and brings something special to the bowl. This Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad is proof that the simplest combinations can create the most memorable flavors and textures—every ingredient has its role in making this dish pop.
- Shrimp: Use 1 pound of cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp for a juicy, protein-packed foundation that soaks up the citrusy dressing beautifully.
- Mango: Choose a ripe mango for natural sweetness and vibrant color that brings out the tropical notes in every bite.
- Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creamy texture and balances the sweet and savory elements of the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halve 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness and a lovely pop of red.
- Red Onion: Finely chop 1/4 cup red onion for a mild bite and a bit of crunch that contrasts perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chop 1/4 cup of cilantro to sprinkle in herbal freshness and a splash of green.
- Lime Juice: The juice of one lime ties everything together with a zesty, tangy finish that brightens up the salad.
- Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil adds lusciousness and helps the flavors meld together.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste, enhancing every component without overpowering them.
- Mixed Greens or Lettuce (optional): Serve the salad over your favorite greens for extra crunch, color, and a beautiful presentation.
How to Make Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all your fresh ingredients. Dice the ripe mango and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Having everything ready makes assembling the Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad a breeze and ensures the flavors stay vibrant.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shrimp, diced mango, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado or mango. This step is where the magic starts—each ingredient brings its own personality to the bowl.
Step 3: Dress and Season
Drizzle the juice of one lime and a tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture. Toss gently again to coat everything in the zesty, flavorful dressing. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. At this stage, you can also add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño for a little extra kick if you like things spicy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad onto a bed of mixed greens or lettuce if you prefer a heartier meal, or serve it just as it is for a light and refreshing main course. This salad is best enjoyed immediately, while the avocado is still bright and the shrimp are juicy.
How to Serve Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of fresh chili over the top for a splash of color and a hint of heat. A wedge of lime on the side is always welcome for that extra burst of citrus, and a pinch of flaky sea salt at the very end makes everything pop.
Side Dishes
This salad is a star on its own, but if you want to create a full meal, consider pairing it with warm tortilla chips, a side of coconut rice, or a simple grilled corn on the cob. These sides complement the tropical flair of Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad and turn lunch into a little celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the salad in avocado shells or hollowed-out mango halves for a show-stopping presentation. It also looks gorgeous layered in clear glasses or mason jars for individual servings—perfect for a picnic or brunch spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad will keep for up to one day, though the avocado may brown slightly. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it as soon as possible after assembling.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because avocado and mango both lose their fresh texture after thawing, and shrimp can become rubbery. It’s best to make Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad fresh and enjoy it right away.
Reheating
You don’t need to reheat this salad since it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If your shrimp were previously frozen and chilled, just let the salad sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry before using. Freshly cooked and chilled shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen works just fine in a pinch.
What’s the best way to tell if my mango and avocado are ripe?
Look for a mango that gives slightly to gentle pressure and has a fragrant aroma at the stem. For avocado, it should also yield gently to a squeeze and feel just a bit soft, but not mushy. These signs mean they’re at their peak for salad-making.
Could I add other vegetables or fruit?
Definitely! Sliced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, or even a handful of sweet corn kernels make great additions. You can also toss in a few pineapple chunks for extra tropical flair.
Is Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and also dairy-free, making it a great option for a variety of dietary needs. Just be sure any side dishes you serve are also gluten-free if needed.
Can I make Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp, mango, and other veggies a few hours in advance, but wait to cut and add the avocado and toss everything together just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad is a true celebration of color and flavor, and it’s so simple that you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you’re new to tropical salads or already a fan, give it a try and let it brighten up your next meal!
