Guacamole Shrimp Bites are the perfect appetizer when I want something fresh, flavorful, and easy to put together. Juicy shrimp and creamy guacamole come together in a single, bite-sized snack that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Whether I’m hosting a party or making a light starter, these little bites never last long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how light yet satisfying these shrimp bites are. The cool, creamy guacamole contrasts beautifully with the warm, seasoned shrimp, and the crunch from the base adds a perfect finishing touch. They’re quick to assemble, easy to scale up for a crowd, and always make a strong impression with their vibrant colors and bold flavors.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Olive oil
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Chili powder or paprika
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Garlic powder
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Ripe avocados
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Lime juice
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Red onion, finely chopped
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, diced
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Mini tortilla chips, cucumber slices, or toasted baguette rounds for the base
directions
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I start by seasoning the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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I sauté or grill the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred. I remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
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For the guacamole, I mash the avocados in a bowl and mix in lime juice, chopped red onion, cilantro, and diced tomatoes. I season it with salt and adjust to taste.
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I spoon a small dollop of guacamole onto each tortilla chip, cucumber slice, or toasted bread round.
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I top each one with a shrimp and, if I want to get fancy, a tiny cilantro leaf or extra tomato piece.
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I serve them immediately to keep the base crisp and the guacamole fresh.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 bites.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Assembly time: 5 minutes
Total time: approximately 25–30 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add a spicy kick with a dash of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño on top. I’ve swapped tortilla chips for plantain chips or thick-cut cucumber for a lighter option. For extra texture, I sprinkle toasted pepitas or crumbled cotija cheese over the top. When I want a smoky flavor, I add a little chipotle to the shrimp seasoning or guacamole.
storage/reheating
I recommend assembling just before serving to maintain freshness. If I need to prepare in advance, I cook the shrimp and make the guacamole separately. I store both in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day. I keep the bases separate and assemble right before serving. Leftover shrimp can be gently reheated in a skillet, while guacamole should be tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to minimize browning.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, I’ve used pre-cooked shrimp in a pinch. I just season and warm them briefly in a skillet for added flavor.
What’s the best base for these bites?
I love using mini tortilla chips for crunch, but cucumber slices or baguette rounds work great too, depending on the vibe I want.
How can I keep the guacamole from browning?
I press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole and keep it chilled until ready to use. A little extra lime juice also helps preserve the color.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I prep the shrimp and guacamole ahead, but I assemble them just before serving so everything stays crisp and fresh.
Are these bites gluten-free?
If I use corn tortilla chips or cucumber slices, they’re naturally gluten-free. I always double-check packaged ingredients to be sure.
Conclusion
Guacamole Shrimp Bites are a fresh, fun, and flavor-packed appetizer I can count on for any occasion. The creamy guac, juicy shrimp, and crispy base make every bite exciting. Whether I’m throwing a party or just need a quick snack, this recipe is always a hit and comes together in minutes.
Print
Guacamole Shrimp Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling or Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Guacamole Shrimp Bites are vibrant, bite-sized appetizers featuring creamy guacamole and seasoned shrimp on a crispy or fresh base—perfect for parties or light starters.
Ingredients
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced
- 20 mini tortilla chips, cucumber slices, or toasted baguette rounds
Instructions
- Season shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté or grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Let cool slightly.
- Mash avocados in a bowl. Stir in lime juice, red onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and salt to taste.
- Place a small dollop of guacamole on each chip, cucumber slice, or bread round.
- Top each with a shrimp. Garnish with cilantro leaf or extra tomato if desired.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Add hot sauce or jalapeño slices for heat.
- Use plantain chips or cucumber for gluten-free/lighter versions.
- Top with toasted pepitas or cotija cheese for texture.
- Add chipotle to shrimp or guac for smoky flavor.
- Prepare components ahead but assemble right before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Easy Shrimp and Guacamole Appetizer Bites
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