Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups

Name: Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups for gatherings, as they offer a delightful blend of flavors and a stunning presentation. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, and serving them in martini glasses adds an elegant touch. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a perfect appetizer that will impress my guests. Each bite is a burst of freshness, and you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. These cups are not just visually appealing but also a delicious treat everyone enjoys.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:55:18.287Z

Preparing these Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups was a delightful experience. The combination of shrimp, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing created a symphony of flavors that I couldn't resist. I found that marinating the shrimp just right before adding them to the avocado really elevated the taste. It's a simple technique that makes a noticeable difference in the end result.

As I plated these vibrant cups, I realized that presentation is key. The bright colors of the fresh ingredients make them look inviting and appetizing. I recommend garnishing with a sprinkle of cilantro for an added visual pop and a fresh aroma that enhances the dishes. These tips are my secret weapons for success.

        Why You'll Love These Martini Cups
        The elegance of serving in martini glasses makes any occasion special.
A perfect balance of flavors with creamy avocado and zesty shrimp.
Quick to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining.

      

Prepping the Shrimp

Using fresh shrimp is key for achieving optimum flavor and texture in your Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups. When cooking the shrimp, aim for a vivid pink color and a firm, yet tender texture. This typically requires cooking them in boiling water for just 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so be vigilant! Once cooked, immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, ensuring they remain juicy and succulent.

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the cooked shrimp in lime juice for a few minutes before assembling your cups. This will enhance their zesty profile and contribute to a well-rounded dish. If you're feeling adventurous, you could incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder to the shrimp while they cool, providing an extra kick that balances wonderfully with the creamy avocado.

Perfecting the Avocado Mixture

The creamy avocado mixture is what truly elevates these martini cups. Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripened—look for a slight give when gently pressed. This ensures they will be easy to mash and will blend smoothly with the other ingredients. When mixing, I prefer using a fork to gently mash the avocados, leaving some chunks intact for added texture that will contrast nicely with the shrimp.

For variations, you can enhance the dressing with additional ingredients such as minced garlic or a touch of diced jalapeño for extra heat. Play around with the acidity; a splash of apple cider vinegar can replace some lime juice if you're looking for a different tangy note. Always taste the mixture as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to your preference. This balance is crucial, as it will directly affect how vibrant your overall dish will taste.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

When it's time to serve, layering the avocado and shrimp thoughtfully in the martini glasses not only appeals to the eye but ensures each bite offers a balanced taste experience. Place a generous scoop of the avocado mixture at the bottom of each glass and then arrange the shrimp artfully on top. For an added touch of elegance, drizzle some extra olive oil or a citrus reduction over the top before adding fresh cilantro as a final garnish.

If you're preparing these cups ahead of time, it's best to store the avocado mixture separately from the shrimp to prevent browning. Store the avocado in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to minimize air exposure. When ready to serve, simply combine the components in your martini glasses and garnish. These cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day if made in advance.

Ingredients

For the Martini Cups

12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Preparation

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink. Drain and set aside to cool.

Mix Avocado Dressing

In a bowl, combine the diced avocados, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mash gently to mix, keeping some chunks for texture.

Assemble the Cups

In martini glasses, layer the avocado mixture and cooked shrimp. Top with chopped cilantro for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including diced tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce to the avocado mixture. Fresh herbs can also enhance the final dish's aroma and taste.

Flavor Pairing Ideas

While the classic combination of shrimp and avocado shines on its own, you can easily experiment with other flavors that pair well in this dish. Consider adding fresh mango or pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that complements the shrimp's sweetness. These fruits can be macerated with lime juice and added between layers to provide bursts of sweetness and acidity.

Another great pairing is adding a hint of smoked paprika or cumin to the shrimp for a subtle warmth. This added dimension can elevate the freshness of the dish, creating a more complex flavor profile. Don't hesitate to mix in other herbs like dill or basil for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Making it Your Own

One of the joys of making Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups is how easily you can customize them to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with marinated and grilled tofu or chickpeas, which will still deliver a hearty texture and flavor dynamics. Similarly, you could replace the traditional avocado with creamy chickpea hummus for a lighter, yet satisfying alternative.

If you want to keep things dairy-free while still adding richness, consider incorporating a bit of coconut yogurt or cashew cream into the avocado mixture. This will give it a velvety texture while maintaining the necessary flavor balance. Playing with different seafood or plant-based options allows for an array of delicious variations without compromising the dish’s integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp properly before cooking.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can replace shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.

→ Can I prepare these cups in advance?

It's best to prepare them fresh, but you can make the avocado mixture ahead and assemble just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for lime juice?

You can use lemon juice as a substitute, but lime adds a distinct freshness.