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: 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 avocado, diced; 1 lime, juiced; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 martini glasses or small cups; Lime wedges for garnish; Extra cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups for gatherings. They are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. The creamy avocado combined with tender shrimp makes for a delightful bite that everyone enjoys. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing me to spend more time with my guests. Whether it's a casual get-together or a special occasion, these cups are always a hit on the table, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:22:08.560Z

When I first tried Shrimp and Avocado Martini Cups at a family party, I knew instantly I had to recreate them at home. The combination of flavors was refreshing, and they looked so elegant! I experimented with the proportions and found that mixing lime juice and fresh herbs really enhances the taste, making it even more irresistible.

Every time I make these cups, I’m reminded of that wonderful party. I've found that preparing the avocado mixture ahead of time not only saves me stress but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a clever little tip that I love sharing with friends!

        Why You'll Love These Martini Cups
        The vibrant flavor of fresh lime and cilantro elevates every bite.
They look stunning, making any table setting appear gourmet.
Perfectly portioned for appetizers, they are an instant crowd-pleaser.

      

Perfecting the Shrimp Mixture

The key to a successful shrimp and avocado martini cup is the freshness of your ingredients. I recommend using high-quality, wild-caught shrimp, which have a more robust flavor and firmer texture than farmed shrimp. When preparing the shrimp mixture, ensure to squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the diced avocado promptly to prevent browning. This also enhances the overall flavor and acidity in the dish.

When mixing the ingredients, take care not to mash the avocado too much; a gentle fold is enough to bind the ingredients. The goal is to create a vibrant, colorful mixture with distinct pieces of avocado and shrimp visible. If you're using larger shrimp, consider chopping them into bite-sized pieces for better texture balance and easier eating.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key with these martini cups. Consider using clear glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of the shrimp and avocado mix. This visual appeal elevates the dining experience, making each cup a mini work of art. You can be creative with garnishes; besides lime wedges and cilantro, consider adding thin slices of radish or edible flowers for an extra pop of color and flavor.

If you’re serving at a party, you can prepare the shrimp and avocado mixture ahead of time and assemble it right before serving. This not only saves time but also ensures the avocado remains fresh and green. Just cover the mixture tightly with plastic wrap to limit exposure to air. Assembling the cups should only take a few minutes, maintaining their appealing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Mixture

1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 avocado, diced
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 martini glasses or small cups
Lime wedges for garnish
Extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to mix until the shrimp is coated without mashing the avocado.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon the shrimp and avocado mixture into martini glasses or small cups, filling them generously.

Garnish and Serve

Top each cup with a lime wedge and a sprig of cilantro for garnish. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the shrimp mixture. This will enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Additionally, if you plan to prepare these cups in advance, add the avocado just before serving to keep it looking fresh.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, it's naturally so with the ingredients listed. However, if you wish to add creaminess without the avocado, consider using dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream as a substitute. For a twist, mango or papaya can be used instead of avocado for a fruity flavor profile that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Those with seafood allergies might opt for cooked chicken or firm tofu instead of shrimp. Simply chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate in lime juice and cilantro for an extra flavor kick before mixing with the other ingredients.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

While these shrimp and avocado martini cups are best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain the freshness of the avocado. For longer storage, both shrimp and avocado can be frozen, but the texture may change once thawed. Always prepare and assemble just before serving for the best taste and presentation.

If you have leftovers, you can store the shrimp mixture in the fridge for a day. However, keep in mind that the avocado might start to brown. To minimize this, sprinkle a bit more lime juice over any leftovers and cover tightly with plastic wrap to reduce air exposure. Although the presentation won’t be as appealing, it remains delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure you thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace shrimp with diced mango or use chickpeas for a similar texture.

→ Can I prepare this a day ahead?

You can prep the shrimp mixture 24 hours in advance, but add avocado right before serving to maintain its color and texture.

→ What can I serve alongside these cups?

These martini cups pair beautifully with tortilla chips or a light salad for a complete meal.