Baked Avocado
Creamy baked avocado halves filled with shrimp, garlic, and spices offer a flavorful, protein-packed dish perfect for a quick lunch or appetizer, served hot or cold.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Empty all the inside of the avocado halves and put these creamy insides in a bowl.
- Combine all the other ingredients and mix well. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill the avocado shells with the mixture.
- Bake the avocados for 15 minutes.
- May be served hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling. If shrimp isn't available, substitute with canned tuna or crab for a different seafood twist. Ensure the avocados are ripe but firm to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking. For extra creaminess, you can substitute the plain yogurt with sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked avocados as an appetizer or a light main dish. They pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Lime-Cooked Shrimp With Avocados or a zesty salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the avocados in an oven-safe dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture of the avocado.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Avocado contains roughly 585 calories, with 18g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (184% of the Daily Value), iron (102% of the Daily Value), and calcium (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before mixing them into the filling. This will help maintain the right texture and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for yogurt if I want a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free yogurt or mashed avocado as a substitute for plain yogurt. Silken tofu blended until smooth also works well to maintain a creamy texture without dairy.
How do I know when the avocados are ripe enough to use?
Ripe avocados should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. Look for a dark green or black skin color, but be cautious of overripe avocados, which will feel mushy and may have brown spots inside.
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).