Mediterranean Keto Shrimp Salad

Craving a fresh, light meal that’s both flavorful and low in carbs? This Mediterranean Keto Shrimp Salad is the perfect choice for anyone on a keto diet or just looking for a healthy, nutrient-rich dish. With zesty lemon, crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tender shrimp, this salad provides a Mediterranean twist that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for a speedy lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a healthy side dish. Rich in healthy fats and protein, it keeps you full while staying keto-friendly.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound medium shrimp (pre-cooked or raw, peeled, deveined, tail-on)
– 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 7 ounces English cucumber (about ⅔ of a large cucumber), diced
– 2 ounces red onion (about ½ small red onion), diced
– 1 avocado, diced
– ½ teaspoon salt (divided: half for the dressing, half for the salad)
– Ground black pepper, to taste
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Shrimp:**
– For raw shrimp, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the shrimp, and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and set aside to cool.
– For pre-cooked shrimp, simply rinse under cold water and pat dry.

2. **Make the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together 5 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, and minced garlic. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt, black pepper to taste, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined and set aside.

3. **Assemble the Salad:**
– In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Add the cooled shrimp and sprinkle with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.

4. **Dress the Salad:**
– Pour the lemon garlic dressing over the shrimp and vegetables. Toss everything together until the shrimp and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. **Chill and Serve:**
– For optimal flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to soak up the tangy dressing. Garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Keto Shrimp Salad balances bright citrus flavors with creamy avocado and tender shrimp. It’s an easy, healthy dish you can whip up in minutes, perfect for a light meal or an appetizer. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this salad stands out while keeping your keto goals in check. Full of nutrients and healthy fats, it’s satisfying and guilt-free—ideal for any day of the week!