Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad

Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of avocados with the zesty kick of shrimp and salsa. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

History

The origins of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico, where avocados and shrimp are commonly used in traditional cuisine. This dish has since become popular in many other countries, thanks to its delicious taste and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients

3 ripe Genuine california avocados
2 cups cooked shrimp
0.5 cup fresh lemon juice
0.5 cup diced celery
4 ripe tomatoes
1 cup diced cucumbers
2 tsp salt or to taste
2 garlic cloves
2 jalapenos
1 cup fresh cilantro
4 green tomatillos
6 tostada shells

How to prepare

Cut the shrimp into medium-sized pieces and place them in a medium bowl.
Add fresh lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Dice the avocados, 2 fresh tomatoes, celery, and cucumbers, then add them to the shrimp.
Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Prepare the salsa as follows:
Boil the remaining 2 fresh tomatoes, 4 green tomatillos, and jalapenos for about 10 minutes.
Rinse them and place them in a blender, then add garlic cloves, cilantro, and salt to taste (about 0.5 tsp).
Add the salsa mixture to your shrimp and avocado salad, mix all the ingredients well, and serve on tostada shells.

Variations

Add diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
Substitute cooked chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein option.
Mix in some black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Adjust the amount of jalapenos and salt to suit your personal taste preferences.

- Serve the salad immediately after preparing to prevent the avocados from browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad on a bed of lettuce or with a side of rice for a complete meal. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the shrimp until they are pink and opaque, then drain and cool before adding to the salad.

- Blend the salsa ingredients until smooth for a consistent texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen shrimp instead of fresh if fresh is not available.

- Substitute green bell peppers for the jalapenos for a milder heat level.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the shrimp and avocado mixture ahead of time, but wait to add the salsa until just before serving to prevent the avocados from browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad in individual tostada shells for a fun and interactive dining experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer to complement the spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies.

Summary

Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad is a nutritious dish that is high in proteins and healthy fats, making it a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its combination of creamy avocados, zesty shrimp, and flavorful salsa, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through my local farmer's market, taking in all the vibrant colors and enticing scents of fresh produce. As I wandered past the seafood stand, a friendly vendor caught my eye and beckoned me over.

"Have you ever tried Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad?" he asked, holding up a platter of beautifully arranged shrimp and avocado slices drizzled with a tantalizing dressing.

I shook my head, intrigued by the combination of flavors and eager to learn more. The vendor smiled and began to share the story behind the dish.

"It's a family recipe passed down through generations," he explained. "The secret is in the dressing – a blend of spicy jalapenos, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro. It's the perfect balance of heat and freshness, complementing the succulent shrimp and creamy avocado perfectly."

I couldn't resist trying a sample, and as soon as the first bite touched my lips, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. The vendor noticed my enthusiasm and offered to write down the recipe for me, along with a few tips and tricks to ensure it turned out just right.

I thanked him profusely and left the market with a spring in my step, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients – fresh shrimp, ripe avocados, spicy jalapenos, and a handful of other key components – I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.

I followed the vendor's instructions meticulously, chopping, mixing, and seasoning with care. The kitchen filled with the intoxicating aromas of garlic, lime, and cilantro as the dish came together, each component blending harmoniously to create a symphony of flavors.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived as I plated the Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad and took my first bite. The burst of heat from the jalapenos combined with the cool creaminess of the avocado and the succulent shrimp was nothing short of divine. I savored each mouthful, relishing the taste sensation that I had created from scratch.

From that moment on, Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad became a staple in my recipe repertoire, a dish that never failed to impress and delight. I shared it with friends and family, who marveled at the unique combination of flavors and begged me for the recipe.

Over the years, I continued to refine and perfect the dish, making subtle tweaks and adjustments to suit my taste preferences. I experimented with different types of shrimp, varying the level of spiciness in the dressing, and even adding a touch of sweetness with a sprinkle of honey.

Each iteration brought me closer to culinary perfection, a dish that embodied the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and bold flavors. I took pride in knowing that I had mastered the art of Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad, a recipe that held a special place in my heart.

As I look back on that fateful day at the farmer's market, I can't help but feel grateful for the chance encounter that led me to discover this delicious dish. It's a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that comes from cooking and sharing food with others, a tradition that I hold dear to this day.

So the next time you're looking for a fresh and flavorful salad recipe, why not give Spicy Shrimp Avocado Salad a try? Who knows, it may just become a beloved favorite in your own kitchen, passed down through the generations for years to come. Bon appétit!