Lime-Cooked Shrimp With Avocados
A vibrant and zesty shrimp salad featuring lime-cooked seafood paired with creamy avocados, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a light, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of boiling water to a boil.
- Blanch the shrimp for 45 seconds, then remove and drain.
- Cut the shrimp in half and place them in a flat, shallow pan.
- Pour 1/2 cup of lime juice over the shrimp.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Remove the shrimp from the lime juice and discard the lime juice.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with avocados, onions, cabbage, tomato, oregano, and chili flakes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, allow the shrimp to marinate in the lime juice for up to 4 hours if you prefer a more intense lime flavor. If fresh oregano is unavailable, you can substitute with dried oregano, using about a third of the amount. For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier variety of chili flakes. This dish is reminiscent of seviche, making it a fresh appetizer option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lime-cooked shrimp mixture on a bed of lettuce or alongside tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Baked Tilapia With Black Beans or can be served as a light summer meal. Consider adding a side of rice or quinoa for a more filling option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp may become more tender over time due to the acid in the lime juice. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a pan over low heat, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lime-Cooked Shrimp With Avocados contains roughly 366 calories, with 18g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (189% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1525mg per serving (66% 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, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before blanching. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the shrimp. Follow the same blanching and marinating instructions for best results.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If you don't have lime juice, fresh lemon juice can be used as an alternative, although it will impart a slightly different flavor. For a unique twist, try mixing lime juice with a splash of orange juice to balance acidity and sweetness.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This lime-cooked shrimp dish is perfect for meal prep. Simply prepare the shrimp and vegetables in advance, and store them separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant. It's an excellent option for quick lunches throughout the week.
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).