Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp meets creamy, zesty guacamole — the kind of flavor harmony that feels gourmet yet takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, planning a light dinner, or craving a healthy snack, this Simple Shrimp and Guacamole recipe delivers freshness, nutrition, and restaurant-level taste without the fuss.
🌮 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15–20 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy & Balanced: High in protein, rich in healthy fats, and naturally low-carb.
- Versatile: Works as an appetizer, taco filling, or light meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for a weekday meal.
This isn’t just another shrimp recipe — it’s the ultimate way to enjoy seafood and avocado in perfect sync.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Guacamole:
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Guacamole
- In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until creamy but slightly chunky.
- Add tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Season with salt and stir gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust lime or salt as needed. 💡 Pro Tip: Cover the guacamole tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel (this helps achieve a perfect sear).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly caramelized.
- Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp just before removing from heat.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Serve shrimp directly on top of a generous layer of guacamole.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Optional: Serve with tortilla chips, lettuce cups, or mini tacos.
🔥 Chef’s Tips for Perfect Shrimp
- Dry the shrimp first: Moisture prevents browning.
- Don’t overcook: Shrimp are done as soon as they turn opaque and curl slightly.
- Use cast iron: It locks in flavor and creates a restaurant-quality sear.
- Upgrade the flavor: Add a pinch of cumin or chipotle powder for smoky depth.
🥑 Flavor Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne or use serrano peppers in the guacamole.
- Grilled Shrimp: Brush with olive oil and grill for a smoky flavor.
- Keto Option: Serve on romaine lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.
- Taco Style: Spoon guacamole into small corn tortillas, top with shrimp and salsa.
- Party Platter: Serve with tostadas or crispy plantain chips for guests.
🧂 Serving Suggestions
Pair this shrimp and guacamole with:
- Mexican rice or cauliflower rice for a full meal.
- Fresh mango salsa or corn salad for tropical brightness.
- Margaritas or lime spritzers for the perfect pairing.
It also works beautifully as:
- A protein-packed post-workout snack.
- A summer party appetizer.
- A quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Sugar | 1g |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and ingredients.
💬 FAQs About Shrimp and Guacamole
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.
Q2: How long does guacamole last?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container with lime juice and plastic wrap pressed to the surface for up to 2 days.
Q3: Can I meal prep this?
Yes, but store shrimp and guacamole separately to keep the flavors fresh.
Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely — both shrimp and guacamole are naturally gluten-free.
Q5: What kind of shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo raw shrimp (fresh or thawed) offer the best texture and flavor when sautéed or grilled.
🧑🍳 Chef’s Notes
“This dish is all about balance — creamy avocado, bright lime, and tender shrimp with a hint of smokiness. The secret to elevating it is simplicity: high-quality shrimp, ripe avocados, and just the right seasoning. Once you nail that combination, it’s magic every time.”
🧊 Storage and Reheating
- Shrimp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for 1–2 minutes.
- Guacamole: Store separately, covered tightly, with a little lime juice to prevent oxidation.
- Avoid microwaving: It can make the shrimp rubbery.
🏆 Final Thoughts
Simple Shrimp and Guacamole is proof that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. With fresh ingredients, minimal prep, and bold flavors, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves wholesome meals that impress without stress.
It’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining — the ultimate combination of simplicity and sophistication.
