Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad with Lime Dressing is a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and perfectly cooked pasta with a zesty lime dressing. This salad is refreshing, light, and full of bright flavors, making it perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy texture of avocado balances the tangy, citrusy dressing, while the shrimp adds protein and a subtle seafood flavor.

This pasta salad is easy to prepare, visually appealing, and offers a balance of textures and flavors. It’s ideal for meal prep, parties, or even as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines creaminess, tanginess, and freshness in every bite. The shrimp are juicy and tender, the avocado adds a buttery texture, and the lime dressing brightens the entire dish.

It’s quick to make, healthy, and always feels refreshing and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a simple pasta salad with fresh seafood and avocado, creating a meal that is both nutritious and indulgent.

It is flavorful, easy to prepare, and versatile, making it suitable for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests. The combination of lime, garlic, and herbs ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~420 kcal
Course: Main Course / Salad
Cuisine: International / Seafood

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Lime Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook Shrimp
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring avocado does not get mashed.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer salad to a serving bowl or plate and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler salad.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Set aside to cool.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
6. Garnish with extra herbs and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad with Lime Dressing chilled or at room temperature. It works as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. Pair with tortilla chips or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe but firm avocado to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Toss avocado last to avoid crushing.
• Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Chill the pasta before combining to keep the salad refreshing.
• Adjust lime juice and seasoning to taste.

Variations

• Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein.
• Add corn, black beans, or bell peppers for more texture and color.
• Replace lime with lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for extra tang.
• Sprinkle with feta cheese or toasted nuts for added richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Best served fresh; avocado and dressing do not freeze well.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• If needed, store pasta and shrimp separately and combine with avocado and dressing just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet for cooking shrimp
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl and whisk

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Prepare all ingredients but add avocado and dressing just before serving for best texture.

Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
A: Yes, penne, rotini, fusilli, or farfalle all work well.

Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp or dressing.

Q: Can I omit honey in the dressing?
A: Yes, or substitute with a small amount of maple syrup or skip entirely for a tangier dressing.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad with Lime Dressing is a bright, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or light dinners. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime dressing makes it a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a healthy, refreshing, and easy-to-make meal that is both nutritious and indulgent.