Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado

Name: Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 small corn tostadas; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado, especially during warm weather when fresh ingredients are at their peak. The combination of crispy tostadas piled high with tender shrimp and creamy avocado is pure bliss. I often customize the toppings with fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and a hint of spice to tantalize my taste buds. Not only are these tostadas delicious, but they also come together in a snap, making them perfect for a quick lunch or a lively dinner with friends.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:13:28.881Z

I remember the first time I made these Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado for a casual gathering. They were a hit! I believe the secret lies in marinating the shrimp beforehand, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Using lime juice and spices not only enhances the shrimp but also brightens the entire dish. It’s a game changer!

Another tip I discovered is to toast the tostadas lightly before assembling. This adds an extra crunch that complements the soft avocado and juicy shrimp perfectly. The balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable bite that has everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy tostadas topped with succulent shrimp and creamy avocado
Fresh and vibrant flavors that refresh the palate
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any occasion

Selecting the Best Shrimp

When preparing Shrimp Tostadas, the quality of shrimp plays a pivotal role in the dish's overall flavor and texture. I recommend selecting wild-caught shrimp whenever possible, as they tend to have a firmer texture and a more pronounced sweetness than farmed shrimp. Look for shrimp that are pink and opaque, with no fishy odor. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed properly in the refrigerator overnight for the best results, which helps retain their juiciness during cooking.

Another tip is to use shrimp that are around 21-25 count per pound; these sizes are perfect for topping tostadas without overpowering them. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to your marinade alongside the chili and garlic powder. This subtle smoky note can elevate the dish and complement the freshness of the toppings remarkably.

Perfecting Your Avocado Mixture

Avocados are the star of the topping for these tostadas, so choosing ripe ones is crucial. To check ripeness, gently press the avocado; it should yield slightly without feeling mushy. When preparing the avocado mixture, limit your mashing to prevent turning it into guacamole—leave some chunks for texture. The fresh lime juice not only adds zest but also prevents the avocados from browning too quickly, maintaining that vibrant green color.

Consider experimenting with different add-ins for your avocado mixture. A sprinkle of cumin adds warmth, while a dash of hot sauce can kick up the flavor profile. If you're serving guests with varying heat tolerances, keep the jalapeños on the side as an optional topping so everyone can customize their tostadas to their liking.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for this delightful dish:

For the Tostadas

8 small corn tostadas
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

2 ripe avocados, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious tostadas:

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss until evenly coated. Let them marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Avocado Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Gently mix to avoid mashing the avocados.

Assemble the Tostadas

Evenly spread the avocado mixture over each tostada. Top with the cooked shrimp and, if desired, add sliced jalapeños.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while the tostadas are crispy and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Now you’re ready to dig in!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Shrimp Tostadas make for a fantastic appetizer or a light main dish. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving them alongside a refreshing corn salad or a vibrant mango salsa, which can enhance the tropical theme of the shrimp and avocado. You might even pair them with a chilled white wine or a classic margarita to elevate the dining experience further.

If you want to make it a full meal, feel free to add a side of black beans for protein or a simple green salad drizzled with a lime vinaigrette. For larger gatherings, set up a tostada bar where guests can customize their own toppings, including additional options like crumbled feta, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those busy weeknights or entertaining, you can prep certain elements of this dish in advance. The avocado mixture can be made a few hours ahead; just keep it tightly covered to minimize oxidation. I often store it with a layer of plastic wrap pressed against the mixture to keep it fresh longer.

The shrimp can also be marinated and stored in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a more vibrant taste when you finally cook them. Just remember to cook the shrimp shortly before serving to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños to the avocado mixture or use a spicier chili powder.

→ Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado mixture and marinate the shrimp in advance, but assemble the tostadas just before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I serve with these tostadas?

These shrimp tostadas pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of Mexican rice.