Seared shrimp stuffed avocados make for an exquisite dish that effortlessly combines both elegance and comfort. I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a sunny summer gathering, and it quickly became a favorite among friends. Imagine perfectly seared shrimp nestled inside creamy avocado halves, topped with vibrant tomato salsa. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions.
Reasons to Try It
One of the best parts about this seared shrimp stuffed avocado recipe is its versatility. It’s a crowd-pleaser—light yet filling, making it perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also allows for an abundance of creativity in the kitchen. You can also whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays. Plus, the beautiful presentation means you can impress your diners without spending a fortune.
"These seared shrimp stuffed avocados were the hit of my dinner party! Fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor. I can’t wait to make them again!"
Step-by-Step Overview
Creating seared shrimp stuffed avocados may sound fancy, but it is surprisingly straightforward. This recipe requires you to prepare a refreshing tomato salsa, season and sear the shrimp to perfection, and then assemble everything in ripe avocado halves. Each step is quick, which is a win when you’re short on time.
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What You’ll Need
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to gather to make these delicious stuffed avocados:
- 12–15 large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon or lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Feel free to swap out the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different spin.
Directions to Follow
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Prepare the salsa: In a bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, then toss them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
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Cook the shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Sear the shrimp for about 1.5–2 minutes per side until they are golden and cooked through. Remove from heat.
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Prepare the avocados: Scoop out a little flesh from each avocado half to create a small well. You can mash this extra flesh and mix it into the salsa for added creaminess.
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Assemble: Place the avocado halves on a serving plate. Add 2–3 shrimp into each avocado half, then layer with fresh tomato salsa.
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Finish (optional but recommended): If desired, mix melted butter with minced garlic and chili flakes, then drizzle this over the assembled avocados and shrimp for a final flavor boost.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving seared shrimp stuffed avocados can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Pair them with a light salad or serve alongside a platter of crispy tortilla chips and a refreshing dip. You might also consider offering a pitcher of margaritas or a chilled white wine for a delightful pairing that complements the dish’s fresh flavors.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To ensure your leftovers stay delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While shrimp is best consumed fresh, you can keep it for about 1-2 days. If you’ve prepped salsa, store it separately to maintain the avocados’ integrity. Just be cautious when mixing shrimp dishes with other ingredients to prevent spoilage.
Pro Chef Tips
- Make sure your shrimp are dry before seasoning and cooking; this helps them get that golden sear.
- Mixing lime juice with your salsa can offer a nice zesty twist that enhances the overall freshness.
- If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked shrimp for a quicker assembly.
Creative Twists
Looking for variations? Consider swapping out the tomatoes for mango or pineapple for a tropical vibe. You can also experiment with different herbs, like basil or even mint, for an exciting new flavor profile. Additionally, spicy pickled jalapeños can add a nice kick to the salsa.
Common Questions
Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
A: The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
Q: What can I substitute for avocados?
A: If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using cucumber boats or bell pepper halves for stuffing.
Next time you’re in need of a meal that’s both fancy and simple, give these seared shrimp stuffed avocados a try. They’ll elevate your dining experience with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
