If you’re looking to impress with a dish that’s as vibrant and fresh as it is simple, Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp is absolutely the way to go. This recipe brings together creamy, buttery avocados and tender, juicy shrimp tossed with crisp veggies and zesty lime, creating a flavor-packed bite that’s perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or even a stunning party platter. Once you try Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp, you’ll find it’s not only delicious but surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a treasured go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining to offer a balance of creaminess, texture, and refreshing brightness. These simple essentials come together brilliantly, transforming a handful of fresh produce and shrimp into a dish bursting with flavor and visual appeal.

2 avocados: The creamy base that holds everything together with buttery richness.
1/2 lb shrimp, deveined: Tender and flavorful protein that adds a satisfying seafood twist.
1/8 onion, diced: Adds just the right amount of sharpness and crunch.
1/8 red pepper, diced: Brings a splash of color and subtle sweetness.
1/2 mini cucumber, diced: Provides refreshing crunch and lightness.
1 green onion, green part only, chopped: Offers a mild onion flavor without overpowering.
Jalapeño to taste, diced: A touch of heat to lift the flavors.
1 tbsp cilantro: Fresh herbaceous brightness to brighten the dish.
1 lime, quartered: Essential for that zesty pop and to prevent avocado browning.
1/4 cup mayo: Provides creamy binding without overpowering the freshness.
Salt & pepper to taste: To enhance and balance the overall flavor.
1 cup shredded lettuce: The bed that adds texture and freshness when serving.

How to Make Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp

Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Shrimp

Start by placing the shrimp in a pot of lightly salted boiling water. Cook for about 3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can get rubbery fast. Once cooked, let them cool before peeling off the shells and chopping into bite-sized, roughly 1/2-inch pieces. This gentle cooking method keeps the shrimp tender and juicy, forming the perfect protein base for our stuffing.

Step 2: Mix the Shrimp Salad

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with diced onion, red pepper, cucumber, green onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Squeeze in the juice from a quarter of a lime to brighten the mixture, then stir in the mayo. This creamy yet fresh salad is where all the flavors mingle — the crunch of veggies, the kick of jalapeño, and the cooling effect of cucumber balance beautifully with the shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocados and Stuff

Slice the avocados in half and remove their pits. You can gently scoop out the flesh if you prefer a smoother filling, or leave the skin on for a natural serving bowl. To keep the avocados from browning, drizzle lime juice over each half’s exposed surface—this not only preserves their vibrant color but also adds a subtle tang. Spoon the shrimp salad generously into each avocado half, nestling them on a bed of shredded lettuce for extra crunch and presentation flair.

How to Serve Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro and a few additional lime wedges on the side can brighten up the dish instantly. Some freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a bit of depth, while thin slices of radish or a dash of smoked paprika can lend a colorful, eye-catching finish.

Side Dishes

Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides such as a simple green salad or a citrusy quinoa salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled corn or a crusty artisan bread basket to soak up any delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these into elegant hors d’oeuvres by slicing the stuffed avocados into wedges on a platter, or try serving the shrimp salad inside cucumber cups for a cool variation. Plating them on a large platter lined with arugula or microgreens can instantly elevate the dish for a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because avocado browns quickly, store any leftover stuffed halves in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly against the avocado flesh to minimize air exposure. Refrigerate and consume within 1-2 days for best freshness. The shrimp salad alone can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

Freezing Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp is not recommended, as the texture of the avocado and shrimp will deteriorate and become mushy. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or keep components separate if you want to prep in advance.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can gently warm the shrimp salad in a pan over low heat, but avoid high temperatures that will toughen the shrimp. Avoid reheating the avocado itself to preserve its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use cooked shrimp from the store for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp can save time and still be delicious. Just make sure they are thawed completely and patted dry before mixing with the other ingredients.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the jalapeño?

Definitely. The jalapeño adds a nice kick, but feel free to omit it or replace it with a sweeter pepper like bell pepper for a milder version without sacrificing crunch or color.

Can I substitute mayonnaise with something healthier?

Yes, Greek yogurt or an avocado-based dressing make great substitutions that add creaminess while cutting down on fat. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Lime juice is your best friend here. Applying fresh lime juice on the exposed avocado surface helps slow oxidation, keeping your Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp looking fresh and appetizing.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

You can prepare the shrimp salad ahead of time and keep it chilled up to 3 days, but it’s best to stuff the avocados just before serving to retain their texture and prevent discoloration.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Avocados Stuffed with Shrimp that makes it a standout dish for any season. It’s fresh, creamy, zesty, and satisfying all at once. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual lunch or showcasing it at a dinner party, I can’t recommend it enough. I hope you give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp and avocado together!