As the summer heat sets in, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a light, refreshing meal that doesn’t require turning on the stove. This cold Shrimp Avocado Salad with a creamy yogurt dressing is the perfect dish to enjoy on a hot day. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with fresh, vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. Let’s explore how to create this delightful summer salad.
Ingredients:
Yogurt Dressing:
- 3/4 cup regular or Greek plain yogurt (2% fat or higher)
- 2 teaspoons of either white vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
Shrimp Avocado Salad:
- 1 lb cooked frozen shrimp, thawed and drained
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 lb long English cucumber, chopped
- 2 large bell peppers, chopped
- 3 medium avocados, chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preparing the Yogurt Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, combine the plain yogurt, white or white wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is creamy and homogeneous, then set it aside.
- Assembling the Salad:
- Ensure the cooked shrimp are fully thawed and well-drained. Pat them dry with a paper towel if necessary to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shrimp, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, chopped bell peppers, and chopped avocados.
- Adding the Dressing:
- Pour the creamy yogurt dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Carefully fold the mixture until every ingredient is uniformly covered with the dressing.
- Finishing Touch:
- Sprinkle the finely chopped cilantro over the top of the salad and give it a final gentle toss to distribute the cilantro evenly.
- Serving:
- Serve the Shrimp Avocado Salad immediately. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or paired with crusty bread for a more substantial dish. For an added touch, you can chill the salad for a few minutes before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities.
Conclusion:
This Shrimp Avocado Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing is a perfect summer dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy yogurt dressing adds a tangy richness that complements the fresh, crisp vegetables and tender shrimp. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this salad is an ideal option for those hot summer days when you crave something light, healthy, and delicious. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, and savor the taste of summer in every bite!