Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter
Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking
This vibrant Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter is perfect for any gathering, combining the freshness of shrimp and creamy avocado in a delightful presentation.
This Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter combines the freshness of succulent shrimp with the creamy richness of avocado. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a light meal, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings
- Healthy and satisfying, perfect for any occasion
The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, this Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter is sure to impress your guests. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy avocado creates a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will not only enhance your table setting but also elevate the overall dining experience.
This appetizer is not just about looks; it’s also packed with flavor. The zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro add a burst of freshness that complements the shrimp perfectly. Plus, with its healthy ingredients, this dish is a guilt-free option that everyone can enjoy, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how quickly it can be assembled. In just 30 minutes, you can have a stunning platter ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for those last-minute gatherings or when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
The simplicity of the preparation doesn’t compromise the flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks gourmet. This means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your company.
Health Benefits of Shrimp and Avocado
Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, low in calories, and rich in essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. It provides a satisfying and nutritious base for your appetizer. Paired with avocados, which are high in healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins, this dish is not only delicious but also supports a healthy lifestyle.
Including this Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer in your meal plan can contribute to heart health and promote overall well-being. The combination of omega-3 fatty acids from the shrimp and monounsaturated fats from the avocado can help keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the Avocado Salsa
In a separate bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Be careful not to mash the avocados too much to keep the salsa chunky.
Assemble the Platter
On a large serving platter, arrange the cooked shrimp and spoon the avocado salsa in the center. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Enjoy this refreshing appetizer with tortilla chips or on its own!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter, consider serving it with crispy tortilla chips or cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch. These additions will not only complement the flavors but also provide a delightful texture contrast. For a more substantial meal, you can serve it alongside a light salad or over a bed of greens.
For an extra touch, drizzle some balsamic reduction or a spicy sauce over the shrimp before serving. This will add an additional layer of flavor and make your platter even more visually appealing.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and avocado salsa separately to maintain freshness. Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. The avocado salsa is best consumed within 24 hours to prevent browning, but you can minimize this by adding a little extra lime juice before storing.
When ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery. Mix the salsa again before serving to refresh the flavors.
Pairing with Beverages
This vibrant appetizer pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing beverages. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, complements the zesty flavors of the dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water infused with lime or a refreshing mojito mocktail.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous pairing, try a light beer or a citrusy cocktail like a margarita. The bright flavors of these drinks will enhance your shrimp and avocado platter, making your gathering even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this appetizer in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and avocado salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them separate until serving.
→ What can I serve with this platter?
Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread work well as accompaniments.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the avocado may brown.
→ Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes, grilled chicken or tofu can be a great alternative for this recipe.
Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter
This vibrant Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer Platter is perfect for any gathering, combining the freshness of shrimp and creamy avocado in a delightful presentation.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Cross-Cultural Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a separate bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Be careful not to mash the avocados too much to keep the salsa chunky.
On a large serving platter, arrange the cooked shrimp and spoon the avocado salsa in the center. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 16g