If you are craving a refreshing, vibrant, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for warm weather or any gathering, the Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This delightful combination of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and colorful bell peppers is elevated by a zesty lime dressing that ties everything together with bright, tangy goodness. Whether you’re grilling out or just want a quick, impressive meal, these skewers are bursting with flavor, texture, and a splash of sunshine on every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple yet packed with ingredients that each bring something special to the table—texture, color, and flavor all in harmony. The fresh shrimp provides a juicy protein base, while the avocado adds a smooth creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crisp bell peppers. The lime dressing brings a lively citrus punch that keeps every bite exciting.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: Pick an avocado that is just ripe enough to be firm but creamy.
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to your skewers.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers a cheerful brightness and slight tanginess.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Used for both marinating the skewers and in the dressing to add richness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: The first burst of lime flavor to start marinating the skewers.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the shrimp and vegetables.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy note without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 cup additional lime juice: Crucial for the dressing to amplify the citrusy zing.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Gently sweetens the dressing, balancing the acidity.
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Thread the Ingredients onto Skewers
Get your skewers ready by threading the shrimp, avocado cubes, and red and yellow bell pepper pieces in an alternating pattern. This not only ensures every bite is a perfect mix, but also creates a stunning visual appeal that’s as appetizing as the flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Skewers
In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss your skewers gently in this mixture so everything is evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp and vegetables to soak up all that zesty goodness, tenderizing the shrimp and bringing out their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Prepare the Lime Dressing
While the skewers are marinating, mix together 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This lime dressing is vibrantly tangy with a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the grilled components. Whisk it well until it’s smooth and slightly emulsified.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them—shrimp cook quickly and you want them to be opaque and just firm, while the bell peppers turn tender with slight char marks that add smoky depth to the fresh ingredients.
Step 5: Serve with Lime Dressing
When your skewers come off the grill, immediately drizzle them with the prepared lime dressing. This final touch freshens the flavors and adds a glossy finish that makes these Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe truly unforgettable. Serve right away to enjoy the perfect contrast of warm grilled flavors and cool creamy avocado.
How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley on top for a burst of herbal brightness and a pop of green color. A few thin lime wedges on the side add freshness and let everyone customize the tanginess to their taste.
Side Dishes
These skewers shine next to light, summery sides like a crisp cucumber salad, quinoa with herbs, or even a refreshing mango salsa. They’re also fantastic paired with grilled corn on the cob or a bed of fluffy coconut rice to keep the tropical vibes going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, you can serve the skewers over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra lime dressing for a vibrant salad platter. Another idea is skewering the shrimp and veggies smaller and serving them as an elegant appetizer with toothpicks—perfect for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the skewers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours to keep the shrimp tender and the avocado from turning brown.
Freezing
Freezing cooked shrimp and avocado skewers is not recommended because the avocado’s texture will suffer and become mushy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the shrimp raw if needed, and prepare the fresh skewers when ready to cook.
Reheating
Reheat leftover skewers gently in a warm oven or on a grill pan for just a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can toughen the shrimp and alter the creamy avocado texture. Add a fresh drizzle of the lime dressing after reheating to restore brightness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before threading onto skewers to avoid excess moisture that can affect grilling.
How do I prevent avocado from browning?
Using perfectly ripe avocado and coating it quickly with lime juice helps keep it fresh and green longer. Serve the skewers soon after grilling for the best appearance.
Can this dish be made without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or broiler. Just keep an eye on cooking times to avoid overcooking the shrimp and vegetables.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the marinade or dressing if you like a little heat.
What’s the best way to serve these skewers at a party?
Serve smaller-sized skewers as finger food alongside dipping sauces, and keep extra lime dressing on hand for guests to add as they please.
Final Thoughts
The Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that brings excitement to your plate with every bite. It’s quick, fresh, and so satisfying that I can’t recommend it enough. Give this recipe a try—whether for a casual weeknight treat or to impress friends at your next barbecue, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll return to time and again!
Print
Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and fresh Shrimp and Avocado Skewers marinated in lime and olive oil, perfectly grilled and served with a zesty lime dressing. A quick and healthy appetizer or main dish bursting with bright flavors and colorful vegetables, perfect for summer cookouts or light dinners.
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
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the shrimp, avocado cubes, and pieces of red and yellow bell pepper alternately onto skewers to create colorful and balanced kabobs.
- Marinate Skewers: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss the assembled skewers in this mixture ensuring even coating, then let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and set aside for serving.
- Grill Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning carefully. Grill until the shrimp are opaque, cooked through, and the vegetables are tender with slight grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill, drizzle generously with the prepared lime dressing, and serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant dish.
Notes
- For best results, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent burning on the grill.
- Adjust marinating time depending on how intense you want the flavors; however, avoid marinating avocado for too long to prevent browning.
- You can substitute bell peppers with cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices for variety.
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked (opaque and firm) before serving to avoid any food safety issues.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
