Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers Recipe for Summer Grilling
Garlic shrimp avocado skewers recipe gives a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a light meal or appetizer that feels special without much fuss.
The combination works beautifully for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any time you want something fresh and satisfying.
Guests always seem drawn to food served on sticks because it feels casual yet thoughtful at the same time.
The flavors complement each other in a way that makes every bite feel balanced and complete.
You can serve them at parties where people love finger foods, or plate them for a sit-down meal that still feels relaxed.
They come together quickly, making them ideal when you need something impressive but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
The presentation looks restaurant-worthy while remaining simple enough for busy schedules.
The Appeal Of Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers Ingredient Overview
Protein:Produce:Seasonings and Liquids:Everyday Kitchen Equipment for Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Making Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers from Start to Finish
Prepare the Marinade
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and mix it into the marinade.
Marinate the Shrimp
Drop 1 pound of large raw shrimp into the marinade, making sure each piece gets a nice coating. Let the shrimp soak up those flavors for 10 minutes right on your kitchen counter.
Prepare the Skewer Ingredients
While the shrimp marinates, chop 2 ripe avocados into chunks and slice 1 medium red onion into similar-sized pieces.
Assemble the Skewers
Start threading your skewers by alternating shrimp, avocado cubes, and red onion chunks. Make sure to begin and end each skewer with a shrimp to keep everything stable.
Heat the Grill
Fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the Skewers
Place the assembled skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for shrimp that turn opaque and get a light char, and avocados with beautiful grill marks.
Serve and Enjoy
Pull the skewers off the grill and serve immediately. Squeeze some fresh lemon wedges over the top for an extra zesty kick. Dinner is ready to be devoured!
Helpful Cooking Notes for Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Simple Variations for Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Ways To Serve Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Proper Storage for Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers
Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure the best flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
A cast-iron skillet or broiler works great. Preheat your alternative cooking surface and watch carefully to prevent burning.
How do I know the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp turn from translucent gray to opaque pink and curl slightly when done. They should look plump and firm, not rubbery.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Marinate the shrimp and chop ingredients up to a day in advance, but assemble and grill skewers just before serving to keep avocados fresh.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
While it adds depth, regular paprika works fine. The spice contributes a subtle smoky flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Can I make these without skewers?
Absolutely! Grill shrimp, avocado, and onion separately on a grill pan or baking sheet for a similar delicious result.
Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Garlic Shrimp Avocado Skewers deliver a fresh coastal twist perfect for summer grilling. Sizzling seasoned shrimp and creamy avocado chunks create an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer your guests will devour.
Ingredients
Protein:
- 1 lb large raw shrimp
Produce:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 medium red onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 lemon
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Mix 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
- Add 1 lb raw shrimp to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Cut 2 ripe avocados into 1-inch cubes. Chop 1 red onion into similar-sized chunks.
- Thread shrimp, avocado, and onion pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternating ingredients. Start and end each skewer with shrimp for stability.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to 400°F. Lightly brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once. Cook until shrimp turn opaque and pink, and avocados develop light char marks.
- Remove skewers from heat. Garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
- Marinate shrimp briefly to prevent them from becoming tough and absorbing too much acid from the lemon juice.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill.
- Choose firm, slightly underripe avocados that will hold their shape during grilling and won’t turn mushy.
- For a low-carb version, serve the grilled skewers over a bed of mixed greens instead of as an appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Shrimp
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 298 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 362 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 166 mg




Mary Sue
Founder & Creative Recipe Developer
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Comfort Food Twists, Seasonal Cooking, Creative Flavor Pairings, Easy Weeknight Dinners, Flexible Pantry Cooking
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Mary Sue is the playful, creative recipe mind behind Mary Sue & Susan, known for big flavor ideas, warm storytelling, and dishes that feel both comforting and a little unexpected. She has a talent for taking familiar meals and giving them just enough personality to make them memorable.