Description
Garlic Lime Shrimp Avocado Boats
Ingredients
2 avocados, halved
1 cup shrimp, cooked with garlic
1/2 cup diced cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1 tbsp fresh cilantro
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Cook shrimp in garlic and olive oil for 2 minutes.
In a bowl, mix tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in shrimp and spoon the mixture into avocado halves.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
#GarlicLover #HealthyMeals
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Garlic Lime Shrimp Avocado Boats every time.
- Prepare the Avocados: Carefully slice two ripe avocados in half and remove the pits. Use a spoon to slightly scoop out a bit of the flesh from the center to create a larger “boat” for the filling. Place the halves on your serving plates.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add one minced garlic clove (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add one cup of peeled, deveined shrimp (medium or large size) and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Salsa: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Add the lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Combine and Fill: Add the chopped, cooked shrimp to the tomato salsa mixture. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Spoon the shrimp mixture generously into the prepared avocado halves, mounding it slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These avocado boats are a versatile dish. For a light, low-carb lunch, serve them solo on a bed of mixed greens. To make a more substantial meal, pair them with a side of cilantro-lime cauliflower rice or quinoa. They also make an elegant and healthy appetizer for a dinner party. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cilantro and a lime wedge on the side for a fresh presentation.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook garlic shrimp, mix with a fresh tomato-onion salsa, and spoon into avocado halves. It’s a quick, no-cook assembly after the shrimp is prepared, resulting in a protein-packed, healthy meal ready in under 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Absolutely. Using pre-cooked, frozen shrimp is a great time-saver. Simply thaw the shrimp according to package directions, pat them dry, and give them a quick 30-second sauté in the garlic oil to warm through and infuse flavor before chopping.
2. How do I keep the avocados from browning? The lime juice in the filling helps, but for best results, prepare and serve immediately. If you must prep ahead, brush the exposed avocado flesh lightly with extra lime juice and assemble just before serving.
3. What’s a good substitute for cilantro? If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh chopped parsley or dill makes an excellent herb substitute, offering a different but equally fresh flavor profile.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free and keto-friendly? Yes. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. With healthy fats from avocado and protein from shrimp, this dish is perfectly suited for a keto or low-carb diet.
5. Can I make the filling ahead of time? You can prepare the shrimp and salsa mixture up to a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. However, wait to fill the avocado halves until right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Overripe Avocados: Avoid avocados that are mushy. You need firm, just-ripe avocados that will hold their shape as a “boat.”
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Skipping the Acid: The lime juice is crucial. It balances the richness of the avocado and shrimp, and prevents browning. Don’t omit it.
- Not Seasoning the Filling Enough: Taste your shrimp and salsa mixture before filling the avocados. Avocados are mild, so the filling needs adequate seasoning.
Conclusion
These Garlic Lime Shrimp Avocado Boats are the epitome of a fast, flavorful, and nutritious meal. They perfectly combine creamy avocado, zesty lime, savory garlic shrimp, and fresh vegetables in one satisfying package. Whether you need a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a stunning appetizer, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Give it a try for a delicious way to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.
