If you are looking for a dish that combines creamy, fresh avocado with the delightful flavors of tender shrimp, then you have to try this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe. It is a perfect blend of vibrant ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a colorful, satisfying appetizer or light meal. Each bite brings a wonderful balance of texture and taste with juicy shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and zesty lime, all nestled in a luscious avocado half. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a nutritious, gluten-free option that will easily impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the beauty of this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe. Each one plays a critical role, adding freshness, crunch, creaminess, or a touch of spice that makes the dish sing from the very first bite.
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted: Choose avocados that are slightly soft to the touch for perfect creaminess.
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Cooked shrimp brings mild seafood flavor and protein to the dish.
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast.
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced: Provides a refreshing crisp texture that complements the creamy avocado.
- 2 tablespoons red onion, minced: Contributes a subtle bite that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: Offers bright, herbal notes that lift the entire recipe.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates a smooth, rich binder for the shrimp mixture (Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative).
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Infuses a tangy freshness that balances the richness of avocado and mayo.
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or paprika: Brings warmth and a slight hint of spice to the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that pull all the flavors together.
How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp with finely diced red bell pepper, celery, minced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. This medley not only adds color but also a wonderful mixture of crunchy and fresh textures that are essential for a lively filling.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth. This simple dressing adds creaminess and a burst of zesty flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp and veggies in the mixture.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. This step is key—seasoning enhances the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Avocados
Scoop out a small portion of the avocado flesh from each half to create a slightly larger well for stuffing. The creamy avocado acts as a buttery base that holds the shrimp filling beautifully while adding its own rich flavor.
Step 5: Stuff and Serve
Generously spoon the shrimp mixture into each avocado half. Serve immediately for the freshest experience or chill the stuffed avocados in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly firm up the texture before serving.
How to Serve Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way in elevating the appearance and flavor of your shrimp stuffed avocados. Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a wedge of lime on the side to brighten each serving right before enjoying.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad, quinoa salad, or even a bowl of chilled gazpacho. These side options keep the meal balanced and add an extra dimension without overpowering the delicate shrimp stuffed avocados.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try scooping the filling into small crunchy endive leaves for bite-sized appetizers or serve over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice to turn this shrimp stuffed avocados recipe into an elegant starter for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp stuffed avocados are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1 to 2 days. To prevent the avocado from browning, cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap or brush it lightly with lemon or lime juice before sealing.
Freezing
Due to the creamy nature of avocados, freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The texture of the avocado will become mushy and unappealing when thawed, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Reheating
This recipe is best served cold or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warmer option, consider heating the shrimp mixture separately and then assembling with fresh avocado just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe?
It’s best to use cooked shrimp for this recipe since the stuffing is served cold and raw shrimp would need to be cooked thoroughly first. Using pre-cooked shrimp saves time and ensures safety.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter or healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works wonderfully in place of mayonnaise. It still adds creaminess with a tangy twist and pairs well with lime and Old Bay seasoning.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To keep your avocado looking vibrant, squeeze a little extra lime juice on the flesh or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to limit exposure to air. Preparing and serving shortly after assembling will also help.
Can I add more spice to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding finely diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture gives the dish a pleasant kick without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This recipe can be partially prepped ahead by mixing the shrimp salad components and storing them separately. Assemble the stuffed avocados right before serving to ensure freshness and maintain the avocado’s perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the effortless charm of the Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome, fresh yet filling. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual lunch, a show-stopping appetizer, or a light dinner, it’s sure to bring smiles around the table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this wonderful recipe as much as I do!
Print
Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Shrimp Stuffed Avocados are a quick, fresh, and flavorful appetizer that combines ripe avocados with a zesty shrimp salad. This no-cook recipe features chopped shrimp mixed with vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing, all served inside creamy avocado halves for a healthy and satisfying dish perfect for entertaining or a light meal.
Ingredients
Avocado Stuffed Shrimp
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp, finely diced red bell pepper, celery, minced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro, mixing them thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and Old Bay seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a zesty dressing that will complement the shrimp and vegetables.
- Combine Dressing and Shrimp Mixture: Pour the prepared dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture, stirring gently until all components are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors.
- Prepare the Avocados: Scoop out a small amount of flesh from each avocado half to slightly enlarge the well, creating more space for the shrimp filling while preserving the avocado shell intact.
- Stuff the Avocados: Gently spoon the shrimp mixture into each avocado half’s well, filling them generously but carefully to maintain shape and presentation.
- Chill and Serve: Serve the stuffed avocados immediately for the freshest taste, or chill them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve cold as a refreshing appetizer.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess.
- This recipe works great with small salad shrimp or chopped larger shrimp, depending on your preference.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeño to the shrimp mixture.
