Description
Guacamole Shrimp Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for gatherings or a light snack. Tender, spiced shrimp cooked on the stovetop are paired with fresh, creamy guacamole and served atop crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful combination of textures and bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lime
For the Guacamole:
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Tortilla chips (about 12-16)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice until evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat and set the shrimp aside to cool slightly.
- Make the guacamole: In a separate bowl, mash the avocados until smooth or slightly chunky based on preference. Add the diced red onion, finely chopped jalapeño (if using), diced tomato, chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until combined and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the shrimp bites: Lay out the tortilla chips on a serving platter. Spoon a small amount of guacamole onto each chip, then top with one cooked shrimp per chip to create individual bite-sized appetizers.
- Serve: Garnish the shrimp bites with fresh cilantro leaves and provide lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crispy textures.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add more finely chopped jalapeño.
- Use ripe avocados for the best creamy guacamole texture.
- This appetizer is best served fresh to keep tortilla chips from becoming soggy.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the tortilla chips are made from corn and have no added gluten ingredients.
- Leftover shrimp and guacamole can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day but are best consumed fresh.
