Description
This vibrant Chili Lime Shrimp with Avocado Crema recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty chili lime mixture, pan-cooked to perfection, and served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal in just 30 minutes, this dish balances spicy, tangy, and smooth flavors for a crowd-pleasing seafood experience.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chili Lime Shrimp
- 1 lb raw, peeled fresh shrimp
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lime (juice only)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Avocado Crema
- 1 small/medium avocado
- 1/8 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 medium lime (juice only)
- 1/2 tsp salt or more to taste
- 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed to thin)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, salt, minced garlic, fresh lime juice from one medium lime, and olive oil to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Pat dry the peeled shrimp with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a zip lock bag or medium bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for approximately 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. If short on time, this step can be skipped.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through. Remove the shrimp promptly from the heat to avoid overcooking.
- Make the Avocado Crema: Add the avocado, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice from the second medium lime, salt, and 1/4 cup of water to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt to taste and add water one tablespoon at a time if the crema needs thinning.
- Serve: Plate the cooked shrimp and either drizzle the avocado crema on top or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the shrimp enhances flavor but can be skipped if time is limited.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best tangy flavor in both the shrimp and crema.
- Adjust chili powder amount based on your preferred spice level.
- The avocado crema can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; cover tightly to prevent browning.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a vegan or dairy-free alternative.
