Shrimp Stuffed Avocados

📖 Description:

This refreshing and protein-packed dish pairs creamy avocados with zesty, seasoned shrimp and fresh veggies. Perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or even a dinner on warm days, these shrimp-stuffed avocados are low-carb, keto-friendly, and loaded with nutrients and flavor.

🍤 Ingredients for Shrimp Stuffed Avocados

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted

• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/4 cup cucumber, seeded and diced

• 1 small tomato, diced (optional)

• 2 tbsp cilantro or parsley, chopped

• 1–2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed

• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (for creaminess)

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for heat

🍽️ Instructions:

1. Scoop: Carefully scoop out a little bit of avocado flesh from each half to create room for stuffing. Chop the scooped avocado and set aside.

2. Mix: In a bowl, combine the shrimp, red bell pepper, onion, cucumber, tomato (if using), chopped avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt (or mayo), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

3. Stuff: Spoon the shrimp mixture back into the avocado halves generously.

4. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately chilled or at room temperature.

📝 Notes:

• Use small to medium cooked shrimp, or sauté raw shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika before chopping.

• Make sure avocados are ripe but not mushy.

• Greek yogurt gives a tangy, lighter flavor; mayo adds richness—both work well depending on preference.

💡 Tips:

• For extra crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas.

• Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.

• Want more spice? Add minced jalapeño or sriracha to the shrimp mixture.

• Use this stuffing on lettuce wraps or in pita for a twist on shrimp salad.

👨‍👩‍👧 Servings:

Serves 2 to 4 (each person gets 1 stuffed avocado half, depending on appetite)

🧪 Nutritional Info (Per Stuffed Half – Approximate):

• Calories: 230

• Protein: 14g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Fiber: 5g

• Fat: 17g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 95mg

• Sodium: 300mg

Note: Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

✅ Health Benefits:

• Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.

• Shrimp provides a lean source of protein, selenium, and vitamin B12.

• Low-carb and gluten-free – suitable for keto, paleo, and diabetic-friendly diets.

• High in healthy fats and omega-3s, promoting brain and heart health.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the shrimp filling up to 6 hours in advance. Assemble into the avocados just before serving to prevent browning.

Q: Can I use canned or frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just make sure it’s fully cooked and well-drained. Thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before using.

Q: What can I use instead of avocado?
A: Try stuffing the shrimp salad into hollowed-out tomatoes, bell peppers, or lettuce cups if avoiding avocado.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Best consumed the same day due to avocado oxidation. Store any leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 1 day.