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Chili Lime Shrimp with Avocado Crema Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This vibrant Chili Lime Shrimp with Avocado Crema recipe combines zesty chili and lime-marinated shrimp with a creamy, refreshing avocado crema, perfect for a quick and delicious meal in just 30 minutes. The shrimp is pan-seared to perfection and paired with a smooth avocado and Greek yogurt sauce that adds a cool contrast to the spicy marinade.


Ingredients

For the Chili Lime Shrimp

  • 1 lbs raw, peeled fresh shrimp
  • 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium lime, juiced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

For the Avocado Crema

  • 1 small/medium avocado
  • 1/8 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 medium lime, juiced
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 cup water (or more, to thin)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade and Marinate Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, salt, minced garlic, lime juice, and olive oil to create the shrimp marinade. Pat dry the defrosted shrimp and place them in a zip lock bag or medium bowl. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 30 minutes. For a quicker meal, you can skip marinating and cook immediately.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly charred, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
  3. Make the Avocado Crema: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add additional salt to taste. If the crema is too thick, blend in extra water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  4. Serve: Drizzle the avocado crema over the cooked shrimp or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Enjoy this flavorful and creamy dish immediately while the shrimp is warm.

Notes

  • Marinating the shrimp enhances the flavor but can be skipped in a pinch to save time.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best tangy flavor in both the marinade and crema.
  • The avocado crema can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less water according to preference.
  • Cook shrimp just until opaque and pink to prevent toughness.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.