If you are on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly combines creamy and tangy flavors with a hint of smoky spice, then you have to try the Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe. This delightful no-cook meal brings together tender, succulent shrimp melded with zesty lime and crisp veggies, all nestling in buttery ripe avocados. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but it’s also a nutritious and visually stunning dish sure to brighten up any meal or gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find. Each one plays a vital role in layering flavors and textures — from the creamy richness of avocado to the refreshing crunch of celery, and the punch of lime that keeps everything lively.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp: Make sure they are peeled, deveined, and chopped for easy mixing and eating.
- 3 ripe avocados: Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure to ensure creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and ties all the ingredients together with subtle tang.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: A lighter alternative to more mayo, offering a bit of tang and creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the avocado and shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Adds a concentrated burst of freshness and aroma.
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Provides a mild bite and beautiful color contrast.
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery: Contributes a satisfying crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a herbaceous, citrusy note that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky nuance for a delicious twist.
How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by combining the chopped shrimp with mayonnaise and Greek yogurt in a medium bowl. Then add fresh lime juice and zest to give that refreshing zing. Toss in the finely diced red onion, celery, and freshly chopped cilantro to add layers of texture and herbal brightness. Finally, season everything with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently stir until every ingredient is evenly coated and the mixture looks creamy and inviting.
Step 2: Prep the Avocados
Take your ripe avocados and slice them in half, removing the pits carefully. If necessary, trim a small slice off the bottom of each half so they sit upright without tipping over on your serving plate. This little trick makes filling and plating way easier, helping you showcase the dish effortlessly.
Step 3: Stuff and Serve
Using a spoon, fill each avocado half generously with the shrimp mixture, mounding it slightly on top so it looks lush and appetizing. For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or add some extra chopped cilantro on top. You can serve this dish immediately or chill it for 20-30 minutes if you prefer the flavors to meld warmly together.
How to Serve Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of radish add an attractive pop of color and fresh crispness that complements the creamy avocado perfectly. A light dusting of smoked paprika on top also enhances the smoky flavor profile and makes it look restaurant-ready.
Side Dishes
Because this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe is already brimming with protein and healthy fats, pairing it with a light salad of mixed greens dressed in a citrus vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad works beautifully. Crisp vegetable chips or a side of quinoa salad can round out the meal if you want a little more substance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shrimp mixture over a bed of baby spinach or spring greens instead of stuffing it into avocados for a deconstructed version. You can also spoon the filling onto crunchy endive leaves or halved mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe, keep the shrimp mixture separate from the avocado halves to prevent browning. Store the shrimp salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avocado halves are best gently wrapped with plastic wrap, ideally touching the flesh, to slow oxidation.
Freezing
Since avocados change texture when frozen, it is not recommended to freeze the assembled Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe. However, you can freeze the shrimp salad alone in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’re reheating leftover shrimp salad, gently bring it to room temp but avoid microwaving as it can affect the creamy texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook the shrimp thoroughly and allow them to cool completely before chopping and mixing with the dressing to maintain the perfect texture and temperature for this recipe.
What can I add for extra crunch?
Adding finely chopped cucumber or bell pepper is a fantastic way to introduce some fresh crunch that complements the creamy avocado and tender shrimp.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe fits beautifully into a keto lifestyle thanks to its high healthy fat content and low carbohydrates.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Sure! You can swap mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt or even a dollop of sour cream for a lighter twist though mayo provides the richest creaminess.
How do I prevent my avocados from browning?
Using fresh lime juice both in the shrimp mixture and brushed lightly on the avocado flesh helps keep browning at bay. Keeping the prepared avocados covered and chilled also extends their vibrant color.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe is one of those meals that feel special yet come together effortlessly. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or prepping an elegant appetizer for friends, it delivers freshness, creaminess, and a little smoky flair in every bite. Give it a try and watch how this easy-to-make dish becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Shrimp Stuffed Avocados Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp Stuffed Avocados recipe is a fresh and flavorful low-carb dish that combines tender cooked shrimp with creamy avocados and a tangy lime-infused dressing. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or a light main course that’s quick to prepare with no cooking required.
Ingredients
Shrimp Salad
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Avocados
- 3 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, red onion, celery, cilantro, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and well mixed.
- Prepare the avocados: If needed, trim a small slice off the bottom of each avocado half so they sit flat without tipping over on a plate.
- Assemble the stuffed avocados: Spoon the shrimp mixture evenly into the hollow of each avocado half, mounding the filling slightly on top.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle a light dusting of additional smoked paprika or chopped cilantro over the filled avocados. Serve immediately or chill for 20 to 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For added texture, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cucumber or diced bell pepper.
- This recipe can also be served over mixed greens if you prefer not to use avocados.
- If using freshly cooked shrimp, allow it to cool completely before mixing with the dressing.
