My shrimp salad stuffed avocados bring fresh vibrant flavors to any meal. Creamy avocados cradle a perfect scoop of zesty shrimp salad creating that amazing balance of rich and light. It's my go to when I want something that feels special but takes barely any time.
What Makes These Special
I love how these avocados feel both light and satisfying. The tender shrimp mixed with crunchy vegetables nestled in that buttery avocado creates pure magic in every bite. Best part? They come together in minutes.
Your Shopping List
- Avocados: Choose ones that give slightly when pressed.
- Shrimp: Fresh is best but thawed works beautifully.
- Lemon: Fresh juice keeps everything bright.
- The Creaminess: Mayo and sour cream blend for perfect texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill make everything pop.
- Crunch Factor: Celery cucumber and red onion.
- Seasonings: Salt chili powder and garlic bring it all together.
Let's Make Magic
- Cook Your Shrimp
- Quick boil with lemon garlic and herbs until pink and perfect.
- Chop Time
- Once cool dice those shrimp into bite sized pieces.
- Mix It Up
- Toss with mayo sour cream veggies and all those lovely seasonings.
Perfect Avocados
Cut your avocados just before serving hit them with lemon juice to keep them pretty. A sprinkle of salt and chili right in the hollow makes every bite sing.
Put It Together
Scoop that shrimp salad generously into each avocado half let it mound up a bit. I love finishing with extra herbs scattered on top it makes them look like they came from a fancy cafe.
My Best Tips
Pick avocados that are ripe but still firm they hold up better. Cook your own shrimp the flavor's worth it. A tiny slice off the bottom helps them sit pretty on the plate.
Save For Later
Shrimp salad keeps nicely for a couple days in the fridge. If you have extra avocado turn it into guacamole with lime juice and press plastic wrap right on top it stays fresh longer.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I add cherry tomatoes or colorful peppers for extra pop. A splash of hot sauce kicks everything up. Greek yogurt makes a lovely tangy swap for sour cream.
Perfect Partners
We love these with a crisp salad on the side or some crunchy bread for scooping. When friends come over I serve them as fancy appetizers everyone's always impressed.
Good For You Too
These little boats pack serious nutrition healthy fats from avocado lean protein from shrimp plus fiber from all the veggies. They keep you satisfied without weighing you down.
Quick Answers
Already cooked shrimp? Just chop and season them well. Fighting brown avocados? Citrus juice is your friend. Need dairy free? There are great mayo alternatives now.
Work Ahead
Mix up your shrimp salad the day before it actually gets better overnight. Just wait to cut those avocados until right before serving they're always best fresh.
Change It Up
Sometimes I add taco seasoning for a Mexican twist. Crumbled feta and olives turn them Mediterranean. Each version brings its own special something to the table.
Pure Joy
These stuffed avocados never fail to make people happy. They work for quick lunches fancy dinners or when friends drop by. Simple fresh ingredients coming together in the most delicious way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the shrimp salad ahead of time?
The shrimp salad can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Cut and stuff the avocados just before serving to prevent browning.
- → How do I know when the shrimp is properly cooked?
Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque, typically 1-3 minutes depending on size. Avoid overcooking as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- → What can I do with leftover avocado?
Leftover avocado can be turned into guacamole. Simply separate from the shrimp salad, mash with lime juice, and add your favorite guacamole ingredients.
- → How do I keep the avocados from browning?
Rub cut avocados with lemon juice immediately after cutting. However, avocados should still be cut right before serving for best results.
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
While fresh-cooked shrimp is recommended for best flavor, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Just skip the cooking step and dice the shrimp for the salad.
Conclusion
Fresh shrimp salad with crunchy vegetables and herbs served in halved avocados. A light yet filling meal that's gluten-free and packed with healthy fats.