Sun-kissed Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Dip

Who says you can’t add a little sophistication to a day at the beach? After a day of swimming and lounging with our hair pleasantly wavy from the saltwater and our skin sun-kissed from the day’s rays, we find ourselves in the ultimate dining al fresco location. We take full advantage by setting up our tiny cobalt blue wooden folding table, arranging our indigo enamel tableware, and setting out a spread for our tunic-clad family and friends.

While chips and guacamole are a match made in heaven, we wanted to amp up the duo this past weekend at a relaxed beach get together. We were intrigued by Food and Wine’s Spiced Shrimp with Tomato Salsa and Avocado Dip which featured shrimp as a vessel for a creamy avocado dip. Shrimp has always been our favorite shellfish. While many enjoy indulging in lobster or cracking crab legs, we love the slightly sweet, tender shrimp and find any reason to incorporate it into a dish. Our chic “chip and dip” spread featured grilled spicy shrimp with a bright blend of avocado, mango, basil and lemon for dipping. Not only were these light and fresh bites addictive, they were also easily transportable from cooler to our cobalt blue table.

Photo courtesy of James Powers

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Cocktail with Avocado and Mango Dip
 
Spicy Grilled Shrimp
2 lbs raw medium-sized shrimp, shelled and deveined
2 T EVOO
2 T fresh lemon juice
1 T paprika
1 t cayenne pepper
1 t garlic powder
1 t salt
1 t pepper

Avocado and Mango Dip
2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
1 T EVOO
2 1/2 T fresh lemon juice
1/2 c chopped fresh basil 
1/2 t ground cumin
1 mango, peeled, pitted, and finely chopped
1/4 c red onion, finely chopped
salt and pepper throughout

Preheat the grill to medium.

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with EVOO, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt and pepper. With tongs, place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink with grill marks. Remove from heat onto a platter.

In a bowl, add the avocado and EVOO and mash together with a fork until smooth. Add the lemon juice, ground cumin, and stir. Add the mango, onion, basil and season generously with salt and pepper. Serve alongside the shrimp and enjoy!