Capture the vibrant flavors of the tropics with this refreshing Shrimp, Avocado & Mango Salsa. Each bite is a delightful combination of juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet mango, accented by a zesty lime dressing that brings all the elements together into a perfectly balanced, light dish.
This salsa isn’t just colorful; it’s a wonderful way to enjoy fresh ingredients at their peak, making it ideal as an appetizer for gatherings or a healthy, flavorful lunch. Whether you serve it chilled or right away, it promises a burst of freshness in every bite.
- Bright, tropical flavors combine sweet, creamy, and savory for a refreshing taste experience.
- Quick to prepare with minimal cooking, perfect for busy days or last-minute entertaining.
- Versatile as a dip, topping, or light meal ensuring it fits many occasions effortlessly.
Ingredients
- Shrimp (450 g / 1 lb): Peeled, deveined, and cooked shrimp provide a tender, protein-packed base with mild seafood flavor.
- Mango (1 ripe, diced): Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color to balance the shrimp’s saltiness.
- Avocado (1–2 ripe, diced): Creamy texture enhances richness and smoothness throughout the salsa.
- Red Bell Pepper (½, finely diced): Offers crunch and a subtle, sweet flavor contrast with bright red color.
- Red Onion (¼, finely diced): Gives a sharp, slightly pungent bite that lifts the salsa’s freshness.
- Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Adds herbaceous, citrusy notes that brighten the overall flavor.
- Jalapeño (1 small, minced, optional): Provides a mild heat that can be adjusted to taste for a spicy kick.
- Fresh Lime Juice (2 tbsp): Delivers zesty acidity that ties all components together and enhances brightness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Adds smoothness and richness while helping to meld ingredients.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out natural flavors.
- Optional: Chili Flakes or Cumin (pinch): Adds subtle heat or warm earthiness for added depth.
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
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If your shrimp is not already cooked, season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté in a hot pan or grill quickly until they turn pink and firm. Allow the shrimp to cool to prevent the avocado from browning when mixed, then chop into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Combine Fresh Ingredients
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Gently mix the diced mango, avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño in a large bowl. Combining gently preserves the avocado’s creamy texture and maintains the fresh shapes and colors of all ingredients.
- Add the Shrimp
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Fold the cooled shrimp into the fruit and vegetable mixture to maintain a balanced distribution of flavors and textures throughout the salsa.
- Make the Dressing
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Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes or cumin in a small bowl. This simple dressing brightens the salsa and creates a harmonious blend of zesty and savory notes.
- Dress and Toss the Salsa
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Pour the dressing over the salsa ingredients and toss gently to ensure every component is evenly coated without mashing the mango or avocado. Proper tossing highlights each ingredient’s flavor and keeps the mixture visually appealing.
- Serve or Chill
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Enjoy immediately for maximum freshness or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serving chilled enhances the salsa’s refreshing qualities, perfect for warm weather or light dining.
- Add avocado just before serving to keep it from browning and maintain its creamy texture.
- Adjust the heat by controlling the amount of jalapeño or including hot sauce, depending on your spice preference.
- This salsa works wonderfully with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled fish, or as a vibrant salad topping.
- For efficient meal prep, dice and combine all ingredients except avocado several hours ahead, storing separately to maintain freshness.
Storage Tips
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To prevent the avocado from browning, keep it separate and add just before serving. Stir gently before serving to reincorporate any separated juices.
Serving Suggestions
This salsa is perfect served with crunchy tortilla chips as a snack or appetizer. It also complements grilled seafood or chicken beautifully and can be spooned over leafy greens for a flavorful salad twist.
- Use ripe but firm mangoes and avocados to keep the salsa’s texture fresh and appealing.
- For extra flavor, consider lightly charring the red bell pepper before dicing.
- Make sure shrimp is completely cooled before mixing to avoid warming the avocado and causing browning.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this salsa?
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Yes, thaw shrimp completely, pat dry, and cook as directed to preserve texture and flavor.
- What can I substitute for jalapeño if I want less heat?
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Try using a small amount of mild green bell pepper or omit entirely for a heat-free salsa.
- How do I keep the salsa from becoming mushy?
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Gently fold ingredients and add avocado just before serving to maintain distinct textures.
- Can this salsa be made vegan?
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Yes, omit shrimp and add chickpeas or grilled tofu cubes for protein.
- Is this salsa suitable for meal prep?
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Prepare all ingredients except avocado in advance; add avocado right before serving for freshness.
Shrimp Avocado Mango Salsa
Equipment
- 1 bowl large mixing bowl
- 1 small bowl for dressing
- 1 skillet for cooking shrimp (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp peeled, deveined, cooked
- 1 ripe mango diced
- 1 to 2 ripe avocados diced
- ½ red bell pepper finely diced
- ¼ red onion finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 small jalapeño finely minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes or cumin optional
Instructions
- If shrimp is not cooked, season with salt and pepper, then sauté or grill until pink and cooked through. Let cool and chop into bite-size pieces.
- In a large bowl, gently combine diced mango, avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
- Fold the cooled shrimp into the fruit and vegetable mixture carefully.
- Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional spices in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salsa and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 to 20 minutes to let flavors develop.
Notes
- Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity or add hot sauce to increase heat level.
- Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled fish, or as a salad topping.
- Prepare all ingredients except avocado a few hours ahead for convenience.
