Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Avocado Tostadas are a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying dish combining crispy tostada shells with creamy avocado and zesty shrimp. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or party appetizer, they offer a delicious mix of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, spicy, and citrusy—all in one bite. Quick to prepare and beautifully colorful, these tostadas are both nourishing and crowd-pleasing.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)
lime juice
olive oil
garlic (minced)
chili powder
salt
black pepper
avocados
red onion (finely chopped)
tomatoes (diced)
cilantro (chopped)
jalapeño (optional, finely chopped)
tostada shells
cotija cheese or crumbled feta (optional)

directions

In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mash the avocados with a pinch of salt and lime juice to taste.

Stir in chopped red onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to create a chunky guacamole.

Spread the avocado mixture over each tostada shell.

Top with cooked shrimp.

Garnish with crumbled cheese, extra cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 tostadas.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 minutes
Assembly time: 5 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Use grilled or air-fried shrimp for added smokiness.
Add shredded lettuce or cabbage for extra crunch.
Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, tofu, or black beans for a different protein.
Drizzle with chipotle mayo or crema for a creamy finish.

storage/reheating

Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Do not assemble until ready to eat, as the tostadas will become soggy.
Reheat shrimp in a skillet or microwave for 1–2 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating and cooking.

What kind of tostada shells should I use?
Store-bought or homemade baked/fried corn tortillas work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep everything ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the tostadas crisp.

Is it spicy?
The heat level depends on your chili powder and jalapeño—adjust to your preference.

Can I add beans?
Yes, a layer of refried or black beans pairs perfectly with the avocado and shrimp.

Do I need to peel the shrimp myself?
You can buy pre-peeled shrimp to save time.

How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the shrimp and use grilled veggies, beans, or tofu instead.

Can I bake my own tostada shells?
Yes, brush corn tortillas with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes per side until crisp.

What cheese is best for topping?
Cotija is traditional, but feta or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar works too.

Are these gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free corn tostadas and check all ingredients.

Conclusion

Shrimp Avocado Tostadas are a deliciously simple way to bring bold flavors and bright ingredients to your table. With minimal prep and maximum satisfaction, they make an ideal weeknight meal or party favorite. Try them once, and you’ll be hooked on their crisp texture and zesty flavor.