Spicy Chipotle Shrimp with Creamy Avocado Crema

 

 Light, flavorful, and easy to prepare, these spicy chipotle shrimp with creamy avocado crema are the perfect finger food for any occasion.  They're ideal for a summer barbecue, a casual get-together, or even a fancy appetizer spread.

 

The chipotle peppers in the marinade add a smoky heat that is balanced beautifully by the cool and creamy avocado crema.  The large shrimp cook quickly and are guaranteed to disappear fast!

 

Ingredients:

 

For the chipotle shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

2 teaspoons minced chipotle chili in adobo sauce (adjust to your spice preference)

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the creamy avocado crema:

1 ripe avocado, pitted and diced

1/4 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

 

Marinate the shrimp: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

 

Prepare the avocado crema:  In a blender or food processor, combine diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

 

Cook the shrimp: Heat a grill pan or grill over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (if using) or arrange them in a single layer on the grill pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

 

Serve:  Transfer the cooked shrimp to a platter and spoon the avocado crema over them. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

 

Tips:

 

For a richer flavor, use marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers as part of the shrimp skewers.

If you don't have a grill pan, you can cook the shrimp in a large skillet over medium heat.

Serve the shrimp with toothpicks for easy dipping.

The avocado crema can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

These delicious spicy chipotle shrimp with creamy avocado crema are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!  With their vibrant flavors and easy preparation, they're the perfect addition to your next gathering.