Description
Spicy Shrimp Guacamole Bites are a delightful appetizer featuring juicy roasted shrimp seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, served on crispy corn tortilla chips with creamy guacamole, fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or queso fresco. Perfect for parties or as a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound raw large shrimp
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Guacamole Mixture
- 1 cup prepared guacamole
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (plus additional for garnish)
Assembly
- Bite-sized round corn tortilla chips (1 per shrimp)
- Crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Shrimp: Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 400 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and kosher salt; toss well to coat evenly.
- Roast Shrimp: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 6 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, being careful not to overcook to avoid chewiness. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Guacamole Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the prepared guacamole with fresh lime juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro to add brightness and flavor.
- Assemble Bites: Place a spoonful of the guacamole mixture onto each tortilla chip. Top each with one roasted shrimp. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or queso fresco.
- Serve: Arrange the bites on a platter and serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp to prevent them from becoming chewy; roast just until opaque.
- Use fresh lime juice to brighten the guacamole and complement the spices on the shrimp.
- Choose sturdy, bite-sized round corn tortilla chips that can hold the toppings without breaking.
- Crumbled feta can be substituted with queso fresco or a mild cotija cheese for different flavors.
- These bites are best served shortly after assembly to maintain chip crispness.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 97 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 31 mg
