Are you looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish to impress your guests or add a twist to your meal routine? Look no further than these Shrimp Stuffed Avocados. This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the zesty and refreshing flavors of shrimp, cilantro, and lime. It’s perfect for a light lunch, an appetizer for a summer gathering, or even a quick and healthy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is designed for anyone who loves fresh, bold flavors and enjoys experimenting with new and exciting dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, making it a wholesome option for health-conscious foodies.
Ingredients and Directions
Ingredients
- 1 lb small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 English cucumber, finely diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 Roma tomato, finely diced
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 extra-large avocados or 3 average-sized avocados, halved and pitted
Directions
- Cook the Shrimp: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and rinse under cold water. Pat dry and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the chopped shrimp, cilantro, cucumber, red onion, tomato, hot sauce, lime juice, pepper, and salt.
- Prepare the Avocado Halves: Slice avocados in half, remove pits, and scoop out about 50% of the flesh. Add the flesh to the shrimp mixture.
- Mix: Gently incorporate the avocado into the shrimp mixture. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Stuff the Avocado Halves: Fill each avocado half generously with the shrimp mixture.
- Serve: Place stuffed avocados on a platter. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedge if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce to suit your heat preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or opt for a milder sauce.
- Additional Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese on top can add a delightful tanginess.
- Herb Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be great alternatives.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling shrimp
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for scooping avocado flesh
- Platter for serving
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp mixture separately from the avocado halves to prevent the avocados from browning. Place the shrimp mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To keep the avocado halves fresh, sprinkle them with lime juice, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Shrimp Stuffed Avocados pair wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a sparkling water infused with lime and cucumber. As a side dish, a simple green salad or a quinoa salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: How can I prevent the avocados from browning? A: Adding lime juice to the avocado halves and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap can help slow down the browning process.
Q: Can I make the shrimp mixture ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to stuff the avocados.
Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative to shrimp? A: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute shrimp with chickpeas or a mix of diced vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and black beans.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
Conclusion
These Shrimp Stuffed Avocados are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients. They make an excellent choice for a quick meal or a party appetizer that will surely impress your guests. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious and healthy dishes. Happy cooking!
Print
Shrimp Stuffed Avocados
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Shrimp Stuffed Avocados: Fresh avocados filled with a zesty shrimp mix, perfect for a light, nutritious meal or appetizer. Ready in 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal