Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe

There is something truly delightful about the fresh, zesty burst of the Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe. This dish combines juicy, succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and vibrant bell peppers, all brought to life by a tangy lime dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors that makes it irresistible at any gathering or a bright weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for warm weather meals or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are fresh, straightforward, and each plays a vital role in adding layers of flavor and vibrant color to your plate.

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: These provide a juicy, slightly sweet seafood base that grills beautifully with a smoky char.
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: Creamy and soft, avocado balances the shrimp’s texture with a buttery touch.
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a sweet crunch and bright red color that makes the skewers pop.
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Another layer of sweet crunch and sunshine-yellow hues.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil: Used for marinating and grilling, it keeps everything moist and adds richness.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice: Introduces a fresh citrus zing that brightens the shrimp before grilling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (for dressing): A key tangy ingredient that gives the dressing its lively character.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for dressing): Creates a smooth, glossy sauce to finish the skewers perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lime in the dressing.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for dressing): To season the dressing just right.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for dressing): Adds a gentle kick to the dressing’s flavor profile.

How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Thread the Ingredients onto Skewers

Start by assembling the star players: shrimp, avocado, and both red and yellow bell peppers. Alternate these on your skewers so each bite combines a juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetable. This layering not only looks vibrant but ensures a perfect mix of textures in every mouthful.

Step 2: Marinate the Skewers

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss your skewers gently in this marinade and let them rest for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential because it lets the flavors soak into the shrimp and vegetables, enhancing their natural tastes while keeping everything juicy during grilling.

Step 3: Prepare the Lime Dressing

While the skewers marinate, grab a small bowl and combine lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it well until the dressing is smooth and glossy. This tangy, slightly sweet dressing elevates the dish with its refreshing zing and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Grill Everything to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want the shrimp to turn a lovely pink with just a bit of char while the bell peppers soften but retain a slight crunch. Be careful with the avocado—to avoid mushiness, handle the skewers gently and turn them carefully.

Step 5: Dress and Serve Immediately

Once the skewers are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with your homemade lime dressing. Serving them right away ensures you enjoy the juicy shrimp and creamy avocado at their best, enhanced by the cooling, vibrant dressing.

How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe

Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To take your presentation up a notch, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or finely diced red onions over the skewers. A little extra lime wedge on the side invites guests to add a burst of tang to their liking. These simple garnishes add color contrast and a fresh herbal note that complements the lime dressing.

Side Dishes

This shrimp and avocado delight pairs perfectly with a light couscous salad, zesty quinoa, or even simple grilled corn on the cob. If you want to keep it super fresh, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette—this combination keeps the meal balanced, bright, and full of texture.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, consider serving these skewers over a bed of mixed greens or a vibrant mango salsa. Alternatively, serve them on wooden boards surrounded by colorful bowls of dipping sauces like spicy aioli or a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though rare!), place the skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the lime dressing separate if possible, so the avocado doesn’t turn too soft or brown.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze the shrimp before assembling, do so raw and peel/devein beforehand. Avoid freezing the assembled skewers with avocado because avocados don’t freeze well and can lose their texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover skewers gently in a skillet over medium heat or briefly on the grill just until warmed through. Adding the lime dressing fresh before serving will help revive the flavors after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp before peeling and deveining. Pat them dry well to ensure the marinade adheres perfectly.

What if I’m allergic to avocado?

You can substitute the avocado cubes with chunks of fresh cucumber or zucchini for a crisp, refreshing alternative that complements the shrimp well.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

For a vegetarian spin, swap shrimp with firm tofu cubes or large mushroom caps. Marinate and grill the same way to capture similar flavors and textures.

How long can I marinate the skewers?

Marinating for 30 minutes is ideal, but you can extend it up to 2 hours. Just keep the skewers in the fridge to maintain freshness and avoid over-marinating the avocado, which can get mushy.

Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue party?

Yes! These skewers grill beautifully and make a colorful, flavorful addition to any barbecue spread. They’re easy to serve and eat outdoors, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong with the Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe. This vibrant, zesty dish captures everything we love about summer eating: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and effortless preparation. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a staple whether for casual family dinners or your next festive gathering. Happy grilling!

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Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe

Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 48 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes plus 30 minutes marinating
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delicious and vibrant Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing meal. This recipe combines juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet bell peppers, marinated and grilled to perfection, then finished with a tangy lime and honey dressing.


Ingredients

Skewers

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Lime Dressing

  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Thread Skewers: Thread the shrimp, avocado, and bell peppers onto skewers, alternating the ingredients to create colorful, evenly distributed pieces on each skewer.
  2. Marinate Skewers: In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss the prepared skewers in this marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  3. Prepare Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside until ready to serve.
  4. Preheat Grill and Cook: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the shrimp is fully cooked, opaque, and slightly charred, and the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle them generously with the prepared lime dressing. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • If wooden skewers are used, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid toughness; they should be opaque and firm.
  • The avocado is added raw and grilled lightly on the skewers—handle carefully to prevent mashing.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade or dressing.
  • Can be served with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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