If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors, bright colors, and just the right touch of tanginess, you’re going to love this Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe. It brings together juicy, grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and vibrant bell peppers, all kissed with a zesty lime dressing that elevates every bite. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a standout dish for your next backyard gathering, combining simplicity and sophistication in one delicious package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe relies on fresh, straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create an unforgettable taste experience. Each item plays a crucial role, from the succulent shrimp that provide protein and a tender bite to the creamy avocado that adds richness and a silky texture. The bell peppers bring a pop of color and sweetness while the lime dressing ties everything together with brightness and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: Make sure it’s perfectly ripe for creamy, buttery goodness.
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers a sunny hue and crisp texture.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: A good quality olive oil brings smoothness and richness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Essential for that fresh, citrusy punch in the marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough spice.
- 1/4 cup lime juice (for dressing): Intensifies the lime flavor in the dressing.
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for dressing): Creates a velvety dressing to drizzle over the skewers.
- 1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the lime’s acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for dressing): Enhances all the dressing flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for dressing): Adds a subtle heat to the dressing.
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Thread the Ingredients onto Skewers
Start by threading the shrimp, avocado cubes, and pieces of red and yellow bell peppers onto wooden or metal skewers. Alternating the ingredients ensures a beautiful presentation and allows the diverse flavors to mingle on the grill. Take care not to pack the skewers too tightly so everything cooks evenly and each piece gets a bit of that smoky char.
Step 2: Marinade the Skewers
Combine the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl to create a simple but flavorful marinade. Gently toss the skewers in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This process infuses the shrimp and vegetables with zesty goodness and helps keep the shrimp tender and juicy when grilled.
Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing
While the skewers soak up that marinade, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This lime dressing adds a bright, slightly sweet finish that perfectly complements the grilled shrimp and creamy avocado once everything’s cooked.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and carefully lay the skewers on the rack. Grill them for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning gently to cook the shrimp through and give the bell peppers a slight char while warming the avocado without melting it. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turns pink and opaque, and the peppers soften just a bit.
Step 5: Serve with Lime Dressing
Once off the grill, place the skewers on a serving platter and generously drizzle with the freshly made lime dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the bold flavors and warm textures at their best!
How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation and add extra layers of flavor by garnishing the skewers with fresh cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or some finely chopped green onions. A wedge of lime on the side invites guests to add a final squeeze of citrus for an extra kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Consider serving it alongside a quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, or a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. For a heartier option, garlic butter grilled corn or a bed of fluffy coconut rice are amazing complements that keep with the bright, summery vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shrimp and avocado off the skewers over a crunchy mixed greens salad or wrapped in warm tortillas for a DIY taco feast. You can also thread extra lime wedges on the skewers for both decoration and flavor—perfect for parties or casual dinners that feel a bit special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp and avocado skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the lime dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the best texture and freshness.
Freezing
Because of the avocado’s delicate texture, this recipe does not freeze well once assembled. It’s best to freeze just the shrimp before cooking if needed. Marinate and grill fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers on a grill pan or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking the shrimp or mushy avocado. Then drizzle with fresh lime dressing before serving to revive those vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Is it better to use wooden or metal skewers?
Both work well, but if you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
How ripe should the avocado be?
Look for an avocado that’s just ripe—slightly soft but not mushy. This will ensure creamy texture without falling apart on the skewers.
Can I make the lime dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing can be mixed up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before drizzling to recombine the ingredients.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan stovetop. Just watch closely to prevent overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe is a joyful celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking to impress at a summer barbecue or whip up a light, healthy dinner, these skewers deliver flavors that are lively, colorful, and simply irresistible. Give them a try—you’ll be coming back for seconds in no time!
Print
Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Dressing are a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for grilling season. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and vibrant bell peppers are marinated in a zesty lime and olive oil mixture, then grilled to perfection. Finished with a sweet and tangy lime dressing, these skewers make a healthy and colorful meal ideal for outdoor gatherings or a light dinner.
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
- Thread the Ingredients: Carefully thread the shrimp, avocado cubes, and red and yellow bell pepper pieces alternately onto skewers to create colorful kebabs.
- Marinate the 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 the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined to make a bright and tangy dressing.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, grilling until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque, and the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
- Serve with Dressing: Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle generously with the prepared lime dressing. Serve immediately for the best fresh flavor and texture.
Notes
- To keep avocado from browning, marinate the skewers shortly before grilling rather than too far in advance.
- Use wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a grill pan or under the broiler, turning carefully to cook evenly.
- For an extra kick, add some chili flakes to the marinade or dressing.
- Make sure shrimp are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
