Spicy Lime Shrimp Pineapple (Printable)

Spiced lime shrimp topped with refreshing pineapple avocado salsa for a quick tropical dinner.

# List of ingredients:

→ Shrimp

01 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - Zest and juice of 2 limes
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
08 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Pineapple Avocado Salsa

10 - 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
11 - 1 ripe avocado, diced
12 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
13 - 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and minced
14 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
15 - Juice of 1 lime
16 - Pinch of salt

→ Garnish

17 - Lime wedges
18 - Fresh cilantro leaves

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lime zest and juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the salsa.
02 - In a separate bowl, gently combine the diced pineapple, avocado, red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Fold the ingredients together carefully to preserve the avocado's texture. Set aside.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and become opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
04 - Transfer the hot shrimp to serving plates and spoon the pineapple avocado salsa generously over the top. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and cilantro leaves for a bright, finishing touch.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The salsa comes together while the shrimp marinates, so everything finishes at the same time.
  • It looks impressive enough for guests but comes together in under 30 minutes.
02 -
  • Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast, so pull them off the heat the moment they turn pink and opaque.
  • Make the salsa right before serving because avocado browns quickly once cut.
03 -
  • Dry the shrimp with paper towels before marinating so the spices stick better.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one because it holds heat beautifully for that perfect sear.