Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a healthy appetizer. The juicy shrimp are seared in a hot skillet, then paired with ripe, creamy avocado and sweet, tangy tomatoes for a dish that’s bursting with color and flavor. A hint of lime and fresh herbs ties everything together beautifully.
The first time I made Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together with minimal effort. The shrimp were perfectly cooked—juicy and tender on the inside with a slight char from the skillet—while the avocado added a creamy richness and the tomatoes provided a burst of freshness. What I love most about this dish is how customizable it is; you can add a dash of chili flakes for heat, toss in some cilantro, or even serve it over a bed of greens for a light salad. It’s a quick and healthy meal that’s full of vibrant flavors, perfect for any time of year!
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Summer meals
- Light lunches
- Seafood lovers
- Avocado enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado will become your go-to dish:
- Burst of Freshness: The tomatoes and avocado add a fresh and vibrant taste that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Easy and Quick: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Zesty Flavor: The seasoning adds a flavorful kick without overpowering the natural taste of the shrimp.
- Creamy Avocado: The creamy texture of avocado enhances the dish, balancing the heat and acidity.
- Light and Healthy: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, or a side salad to create a complete meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup—perfect for a hassle-free meal.
- Great for Entertaining: Impress guests with a simple, yet flavorful, dish that’s full of color and texture.
- Customizable: Adjust the level of spice or add extra veggies for a personalized touch.
- Low Carb Option: Skip the rice or pasta for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Tomato and Avocado:
- 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: High in protein and low in fat, shrimp are a quick-cooking, healthy addition to any meal.
- Avocado: A creamy, nutrient-dense fruit that adds healthy fats and a smooth texture to the dish.
- Tomatoes: A fresh, juicy addition that brings color and a burst of flavor.
- Cilantro and Lime: These ingredients add brightness and a refreshing finish to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Tomato and Avocado:
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Assemble the Dish:
- Combine the Shrimp and Vegetables: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the tomato and avocado mixture. Toss gently to combine and warm everything through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Divide the shrimp mixture into bowls or plates, garnish with fresh lime wedges and cilantro, and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado:
- With Rice: Serve the shrimp and vegetables over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- In Tacos: Use soft tortillas to make shrimp tacos, topped with the tomato and avocado mixture.
- With Pasta: Serve the shrimp with pasta for a more filling option.
- In a Salad: Toss the shrimp mixture with greens for a refreshing, light salad.
- As a Snack: Serve with tortilla chips for a quick and flavorful snack.
- With Quinoa: Pair with quinoa for a protein-packed, hearty dish.
- As a Sandwich: Serve the shrimp in a toasted bun for a delicious shrimp sandwich.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced, nutritious meal.
- As a Starter: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer or starter for a dinner party.
- With a Side of Guacamole: Pair with fresh guacamole for an extra creamy treat.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The tomatoes and avocado make this dish shine, so opt for the freshest produce available.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chili peppers to the shrimp seasoning.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables, such as corn or bell peppers, for added texture and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado can become mushy if left too long.
Recipe Variations
- Grilled Shrimp: Grill the shrimp instead of sautéing for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Shrimp with Mango: Replace the tomatoes with diced mango for a sweet and tropical twist.
- Avocado Lime Sauce: Instead of diced avocado, blend it into a creamy sauce with lime juice for a smooth topping.
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the shrimp seasoning for extra heat.
- Zucchini Noodles: Serve the shrimp and vegetables over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the dish for a Mediterranean flair.
- Coconut Shrimp: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut before cooking for a crispy, tropical touch.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Replace the lime with lemon and add extra garlic for a zesty, garlicky version.
- Vegan Version: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
- Herb Variation: Swap cilantro for parsley or basil for a different herbal flavor.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for evenly cooking the shrimp and vegetables.
- Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to dice the tomatoes and avocado evenly.
- Tongs: Tongs are great for flipping the shrimp without damaging them.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping the vegetables.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. - How long will the leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add more chili powder or fresh chili peppers for extra heat. - What other vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini would be great additions. - Can I make this dish in advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and veggies ahead of time for quicker assembly. - Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. - Can I skip the avocado?
Yes, but the avocado adds a creamy texture that complements the dish. - What can I serve this with?
Rice, quinoa, pasta, or a side salad would all pair well with this dish. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as the avocado and tomatoes don’t freeze well. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado in a quick, one-pan meal. The shrimp are seasoned and sautéed to perfection, while the tomatoes bring a burst of freshness, and the avocado adds a smooth, buttery texture that complements the dish beautifully. The combination of flavors is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a healthy dinner or a special occasion.
This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite seasonings—like garlic, cilantro, lime, or chili flakes—for an extra kick of flavor. It’s perfect on its own, or you can serve it over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a more filling meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or something a bit more special, this recipe delivers on both taste and ease.
I can’t wait to see how your Skillet Shrimp with Tomato and Avocado turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!