Zesty Shrimp and Avocado Salad

🌍 Cultural Description:

Garlic butter shrimp skewers are beloved across many culinary traditions, particularly popular in Mediterranean, American, and Latin American cuisines. Known for their simplicity and delightful blend of buttery garlic flavors, these skewers offer a delicious appetizer or main courseThis fresh and zesty shrimp and avocado salad is a favorite in coastal cuisines around the world, especially in Latin American countries like Mexico and Peru. The combination of citrus-marinated shrimp, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables creates a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for warm days.

🍽️ Nutritional Highlights:

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, low in calories, and rich in nutrients like iodine and selenium. Garlic provides immune-boosting antioxidants, and butter adds flavor along with essential fats and vitaminsand avocado are both nutrient-dense: shrimp offer lean protein and minerals, while avocados are rich in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. Combined with fresh veggies, this salad is low-carb, high in nutrients, and supports healthy digestion and metabolism.

💡 Recipe Success Tips:

Choose fresh shrimp with firm texture and mild smell.

Soak wooden skewers in water beforehand to prevent burning.

Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender and juicyUse ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.

Cook the shrimp just until pink and firm to prevent rubbery texture.

Chill the salad before serving for better flavor and texture.

🛒 Ingredients (Brief Description):

Shrimp (300g200g, peeled and deveined): Fresh, medium-sized shrimp.

Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and flavor.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Aromatic, enhances flavor.

Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, finely chopped): Adds freshness and color.

Lemon Juice (juice of half lemon): Brightens flavors.

Salt and Freshly Ground Light and protein-rich base.

Avocado (1 large, diced): Creamy texture, packed with healthy fats.

Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Adds sweetness and acidity.

Cucumber (½, diced): Crisp and refreshing.

Red Onion (¼, finely sliced): Sharpness and color.

Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped): Herbal brightness.

Lime Juice (juice of 1 lime): Zesty dressing base.

Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Smooth texture and healthy fats.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning.

Wooden Skewers (4–6 pieces): For easy grillingseasoning.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Method:

Rinse shrimp under cold water, pat dry thoroughly.

Thread shrimp evenly onto soaked wooden skewers.

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.

Brush shrimp generously with garlic butter mixture, reserving some for later.

Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and let cool.

In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

Add cooled shrimp to the bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.

🔥 Cooking Method:

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Place shrimp skewers onto the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Brush with additional garlic butter while grilling for extra flavor.

Remove skewers from grill, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Boil shrimp briefly (2–3 minutes), then cool before mixing with salad.

No further cooking is needed for the remaining ingredients.

🍚 Serving Suggestions:

Serve these delicious skewers alongside a fresh salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or rice pilaf. Lemon wedges are perfect for an extra squeeze of freshnesschilled on a bed of greens or inside lettuce cups for a light lunch. Also pairs well with tortilla chips or crusty bread for a more filling option.

⏱️ Recipe Details:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 63 minutes

Total Time: 1613 minutes

Difficulty Level: Beginner

Serves: 2

📊 Nutritional Value (per serving):

Calories: 240 kcal

Protein: 22g

Fat: 14g

Carbohydrates: 2g

Fiber: 0.2g310 kcal

Protein: 20g

Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Fiber: 5g

❄️ Storage Instructions:

Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimpBest eaten fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Briefly warm in a skillet on medium-low heat or microwave gently to avoid toughening. Add a small amount of butter or water to maintain moisture1 day.

Note: Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.