Avocado Appetizers
Creamy avocado halves topped with shrimp and melted cheddar create a flavorful, elegant appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings, combining rich textures and savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shrimp, mayonnaise, parsley flakes, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut avocados in half and remove the stones.
- Spoon the shrimp mixture onto each avocado half.
- Top each with a slice of cheddar cheese.
- Place the avocado halves under the broiler.
- Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to the shrimp mixture for a zesty kick. If you don't have baby shrimp, you can substitute with diced cooked chicken or even canned tuna for a different twist. Ensure the avocados are ripe but not overly soft to maintain their shape when broiling. For a savory addition, try sprinkling some paprika over the cheese before broiling.
Serving Suggestions
These avocado appetizers are perfect for a party platter or served as a starter for a seafood lovers' meal. Pair them with a fresh salad or a light soup, like Quick Fish Chowder, for a complete experience. They also make a delightful accompaniment to drinks, adding a touch of elegance to casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover avocado appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The avocado may brown, so it's best to consume them quickly. Reheat under the broiler for a minute to restore the cheese's melty texture, but be cautious not to overcook the avocado halves.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Avocado Appetizers contains roughly 323 calories, with 13g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 483mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these avocado appetizers ahead of time?
While the shrimp mixture can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge, it's best to assemble the avocado halves shortly before serving. This helps keep the avocados fresh and prevents browning. If you need to prepare them earlier, consider adding lime juice to the avocado to slow down oxidation.
What can I substitute if I don't have cheddar cheese?
If cheddar cheese isn't available, you can use Monterey Jack or even a creamy goat cheese for a unique flavor. Feta cheese would also add a nice tanginess. Just ensure that whatever cheese you choose can melt well under the broiler for the best results.
How long should I broil the avocado appetizers?
Broil the avocado halves for about 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The goal is to melt the cheese without overcooking the avocado. Every broiler is different, so watch for bubbling cheese as an indicator that they're ready to be enjoyed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).