Looking for a burger that takes your taste buds on a vacation to the tropics? Look no further than our Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole. This innovative recipe combines juicy shrimp patties with zesty herbs for a fresh twist that’s sure to spice up any summer gathering. The bold flavors pack a punch, yet the dish remains wonderfully light. With the creamy guacamole topping, you’re getting an indulgence that’s remarkably healthy. The benefits of shrimp—high in protein and lower in calories—combined with the nutritious avocado keep this meal in the realm of health and delight. From seasoned chefs to kitchen beginners, anyone can whip up this satisfying and refreshing dish with just a bit of time and a hint of excitement. Perfect for any occasion, these burgers are a fantastic way to celebrate sunny days and create memorable moments around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole
- Flavorful: The combination of shrimp, cilantro, and guacamole creates a deliciously unique taste profile.
- Healthy: Packed with lean protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocado.
- Simple: Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for a dinner party.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Getting ready to dive into the making of these delectable burgers requires just a little bit of preparation. Make sure your kitchen is set up for a smooth journey from raw ingredients to a mouthwatering meal. First, clear a workspace on your countertop for chopping and mixing. You’ll need a few essential tools: a food processor for the shrimp, a medium-sized mixing bowl, a spatula, and a skillet or grill pan. To ensure even cooking, lightly oil your pan and set the heat to medium. Preparing all ingredients ahead of time—such as chopping herbs and garlic—will help you maintain your cooking flow and keep everything efficient. This recipe doesn’t demand advanced techniques or fancy gadgets, allowing even novice cooks to glide through the preparation phase successfully.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 4 burger buns (any type)
- Lettuce & tomato, for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by placing the cleaned shrimp in a food processor. Pulse them until they are coarsely chopped—be careful not to puree them; you want small chunks, not a paste.
Step 2: Mix the Patties
Transfer the shrimp to a bowl and introduce breadcrumbs, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, and paprika. Add a beaten egg and a touch of lime juice for binding and flavor. Sprinkle in salt and pepper and combine with a spoon or your hands until mixed.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Form your mixture into four equal patties, each about an inch thick. Ensure they are compact to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Preheat a grill or skillet to medium heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking, then place the patties on it. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden and are fully cooked through.
Step 5: Create the Guacamole
While the patties cook, mash a ripe avocado in a separate bowl. Mix in the finely chopped red onion and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a minced jalapeño. Season with salt and an extra splash of lime juice to taste.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
If desired, toast the burger buns. Stack the cooked shrimp patty on the bottom half, generously spread guacamole on top, and add lettuce and tomato for freshness.
Step 7: Serve Up
Serve your succulent shrimp burgers immediately to enjoy while the flavors are at their peak. Bon appétit!
Variations
- Protein: Experiment with ground chicken or turkey for a different but equally tasty experience.
- Vegetables: Add thinly sliced cucumbers or grilled bell peppers for additional crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Spice it up with a dash of chili powder or sriracha in the shrimp mixture or guacamole.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure the shrimp is well-drained before processing to avoid watery patties.
- Chilling the patties in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes can help them hold their shape better when cooked.
Serving Suggestions
- Partner with a crisp, light side salad or coleslaw to complement the flavors.
- Try a side of sweet potato fries for a tasty, filling accompaniment.
Tips
- For an extra kick, add hot sauce to the guacamole.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before use.
Do I need to use a food processor?
While a food processor simplifies the process, a sharp knife will do the job for coarsely chopping the shrimp.
What if I’m allergic to seafood?
Consider substituting shrimp with ground poultry such as chicken or turkey.
Can these patties be grilled on a BBQ?
Absolutely! Just make sure your grill is well-oiled and preheated properly to avoid sticking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole offers an enticing twist on the classic burger without sacrificing the beloved components of flavor and satisfaction. The freshness of the shrimp, paired with vibrant cilantro and creamy guacamole, makes for a dish that’s as joyful to eat as it is to prepare. Whether you’re treating your family to a mid-week culinary adventure or impressing friends at a backyard gathering, these burgers will captivate and delight! Remember, you can always tweak the spiciness or add your favorite toppings to suit your personal preference. I invite you to explore and share these creations—your feedback and interactions mean the world. Bon appetite!
Print
Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Looking for a burger that takes your taste buds on a vacation to the tropics?
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 4 burger buns (any type)
- Lettuce & tomato, for topping
Instructions
- Start by placing the cleaned shrimp in a food processor. Pulse them until they are coarsely chopped—be careful not to puree them; you want small chunks, not a paste.
- Transfer the shrimp to a bowl and introduce breadcrumbs, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, and paprika. Add a beaten egg and a touch of lime juice for binding and flavor. Sprinkle in salt and pepper and combine with a spoon or your hands until mixed.
- Form your mixture into four equal patties, each about an inch thick. Ensure they are compact to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
- Preheat a grill or skillet to medium heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking, then place the patties on it. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden and are fully cooked through.
- While the patties cook, mash a ripe avocado in a separate bowl. Mix in the finely chopped red onion and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a minced jalapeño. Season with salt and an extra splash of lime juice to taste.
- If desired, toast the burger buns. Stack the cooked shrimp patty on the bottom half, generously spread guacamole on top, and add lettuce and tomato for freshness.
- Serve your succulent shrimp burgers immediately to enjoy while the flavors are at their peak. Bon appétit!
Notes
Ensure the shrimp is well-drained before processing to avoid watery patties. Chilling the patties in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes can help them hold their shape better when cooked.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 25 g