Beat the Heat with This Refreshing Shrimp & Avocado Salad

Summer shrimp salad

Summer is here and that means BBQs!

When most people think of common backyard BBQ food, they think of burgers and hotdogs – not the healthiest of choices. However, you can have great BBQ options, that are both delicious and nutritious!

Check out this refreshing and nutrient-packed dish - ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

For the shrimp:

1 lb. wild shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp olive oil

Juice of 1 lime + 1 orange

2 garlic cloves, minced

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp sea salt

⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the salad:

4 cups arugula or mixed greens

1 avocado, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cucumber, sliced

¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

¼ cup fresh cilantro or basil, chopped

For the dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or fresh lime juice

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

Sea salt + pepper to taste

Directions:

Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, citrus juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and cayenne. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.

Grill the shrimp: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill shrimp 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine greens, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and herbs.

Make the dressing: Whisk all the ingredients in a small bowl or shake in a jar.

Combine: Top the salad with warm grilled shrimp. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.

Health Benefits:

• Shrimp: High in lean protein (24g per 4 oz), low in calories, and rich in selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12 — supports thyroid health and metabolism.

• Avocado: Excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium — supports brain, skin, and cardiovascular health.

• Leafy greens (arugula/mixed): High in folate, vitamin K, and antioxidants — supports detox and bone health.

• Citrus (lime/orange juice): Rich in vitamin C — boosts immune function and supports collagen synthesis.

• Tomatoes & red onion: Provide lycopene and quercetin — powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.

• Olive oil: Contains polyphenols and oleic acid — anti-inflammatory and beneficial for cognitive function.

  
  

Estimated Nutrition Info (Per Serving — serves 4)

(will vary slightly depending on portion size and exact ingredients used)

Calories: ~350

Protein: 25g

Fat: 22g (mostly from olive oil and avocado)

Carbohydrates: 13g

Fiber: 6g

Sugar: 4g

Net Carbs: 7g

Sodium: ~400 mg

ENJOY!!!!