Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups

Name: Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 martini glasses

Highlighted under: Taste of Continents

I love serving Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups at gatherings because they’re not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy avocado and tender shrimp, seasoned with a hint of lime, creates a deliciously fresh appetizer that my guests rave about. Preparing these cups is surprisingly quick, and they elevate any occasion to something special with their elegant presentation. Plus, they are a great way to impress without spending all day in the kitchen!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:07:11.702Z

When I first tried making Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups, I was amazed at how quickly my friends devoured them. The vibrant colors of the layers and the balance of textures from the creamy avocado to the crunchy cucumber make it irresistible. I remember experimenting with the seasoning until I found just the right kick that complements the seafood without overwhelming it.

One tip I learned is to chill the glasses before serving. This small detail keeps the shrimp and avocado fresh and cool, enhancing the overall experience. It also adds a nice touch when serving, as your guests will appreciate the extra effort in presentation.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Elegant presentation perfect for entertaining
Fresh flavors that are light and refreshing
Quick preparation that's hassle-free

Ingredient Highlights

The avocado is the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a creamy texture that beautifully complements the tender shrimp. When selecting avocados, opt for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best flavor and smoothness. They should be perfectly ripe, as under-ripe avocados can be hard and lacking in taste, while overripe ones can be mushy and brown. If you need them to ripen faster, placing them in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana can speed up the process.

Each cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the dish that balances the richness of the avocado. I prefer using English cucumbers because they are less bitter, have fewer seeds, and offer a crisp texture. If you can't find English cucumbers, any fresh variety will do, but make sure to peel them if they have thick skin. This tiny detail can make all the difference in achieving that perfect bite in your martini cups.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the shrimp, using pre-cooked shrimp can save time, but ensure they are of high quality. If you decide to cook shrimp from raw, boiling them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque will yield the best results. After cooking, plunging them immediately into ice water will stop the cooking process and keep them tender. For added flavor, consider marinating them briefly in lime juice with a pinch of salt before mixing them with the other ingredients.

To achieve a beautiful presentation, consider arranging the ingredients in layers as you assemble the cups. Use clear martini glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of the shrimp, avocado, and cucumber. Layering the ingredients not only looks appealing but also allows guests to experience the combination of flavors in each spoonful. For a finishing touch, you might sprinkle a few additional cilantro leaves on top for a pop of color and aroma.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups:

Ingredients

1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
4 martini glasses

Once all your ingredients are ready, it's time to assemble your delicious cups!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced avocados, lime juice, red onion, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and diced cucumber.

Assemble the Cups

Carefully spoon the shrimp and avocado mixture into the martini glasses, layering it evenly. You can create a visually appealing look by alternating layers of shrimp and avocado.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the cups in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups as a delightful appetizer!

Perfect for parties, these cups will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the avocado mixture.

Make-Ahead Considerations

These Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups can be prepared a few hours in advance, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. You can mix the shrimp and avocado filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving. However, I recommend assembling the cups no more than an hour ahead to maintain the texture of the avocado and prevent browning. If you notice browning, a little extra lime juice can help to keep the avocado vibrant.

For those looking to prepare a large batch for an event, scaling up the ingredients is simple. Just be sure to mix the larger portion in a bigger bowl and have sufficient martini glasses on hand. Each cup can be filled with approximately one cup of filling, ensuring every guest enjoys a generous serving. Remember to adjust the seasoning to taste if you're doubling or tripling the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience with creative garnishes or sides. For an extra zing, consider serving them alongside tortilla chips or crispy breadsticks for scooping. A light drizzle of spicy chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can also add a delightful kick that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Consider pairing these elegant cups with a refreshing drink like a citrus mojito or a light white wine spritzer. The bright notes of these beverages will enhance the overall dining experience. If you're aiming for a themed gathering, these cups would work wonderfully in a beach or tropical party setting where fresh seafood and colorful presentations are the highlights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shrimp and avocado mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a few hours ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the cups just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

If you prefer, you can use crab meat or even grilled chicken as a substitute for shrimp in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the avocados may brown over time.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and cook the shrimp properly before using them in the recipe.