Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups

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Introduction

Looking for a unique and tasty appetizer to serve at your next gathering? Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups might just be the perfect dish. Combining the creamy richness of guacamole with tender, flavorful shrimp and the crispy crunch of a wonton wrapper, this dish is sure to wow your guests. It’s an irresistible bite-sized treat that packs a punch of flavor in every mouthful. Perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal events, Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups are as versatile as they are delicious.

In this article, we will dive into why this appetizer is a must-try, provide a step-by-step guide to making it, and offer tips and variations to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re preparing it for a family party, a holiday celebration, or a casual weeknight dinner, these wonton cups are bound to be a hit. And because they’re made with halal ingredients—no pork, bacon, or wine—they’re suitable for anyone following a halal diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Combination: The creamy avocado in the guacamole pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp, while the crispy wonton cup adds the perfect texture contrast.
• Light Yet Satisfying: These wonton cups are the perfect balance of rich flavors and light, refreshing ingredients.
• Customizable: You can add or subtract ingredients based on your preferences, from spicier options to a milder, more subtle flavor.
• Ideal for Parties: Easy to make ahead of time, these appetizer cups are perfect for serving at gatherings, whether it’s a formal party or a casual BBQ.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is completely halal-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it, regardless of dietary preferences.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 25 minutes for cooking, 10 minutes for assembly)
• Servings: This recipe makes about 20-24 wonton cups, depending on the size of your wrappers and how much filling you use.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 90, Protein: 6g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 4g

Ingredients

For the Wonton Cups:

• 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers): The base for your cups, providing a crispy texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To lightly brush on the wonton wrappers before baking for extra crispiness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory flavor to the wonton cups.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the wonton wrappers.

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound of shrimp (peeled and deveined): Shrimp is the star protein in this dish, so use fresh or frozen shrimp, making sure to thaw them completely if frozen.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that complements the shrimp.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: For a touch of warmth in the shrimp.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: To enhance the shrimp’s flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the shrimp.

For the Guacamole:

• 3 ripe avocados: The creamy base for the guacamole, providing a rich texture and flavor.
• 1 lime (juiced): Fresh lime juice brightens up the guacamole and adds a tangy kick.
• 1 small red onion (finely chopped): Adds crunch and a bit of sharpness to the guacamole.
• 1-2 jalapeños (seeds removed and finely chopped): For a mild to moderate heat, depending on your spice preference.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the guacamole.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the guacamole.
• 1 tomato (finely chopped): Adds juiciness and freshness to balance the richness of the avocados.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro sprigs: For a fresh, colorful touch on top of the cups.
• Lime wedges: To serve alongside the wonton cups for an extra burst of citrus.
• Crumbled feta or cotija cheese: For added tang and creaminess, if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE WONTON CUPS

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Wonton Wrappers: Lightly brush each wonton wrapper with olive oil on both sides. Then, place each wrapper into a muffin tin, gently pressing it into the wells to form a cup shape. Be sure to overlap the edges slightly to form a sturdy base for the filling.
3. Season the Wrappers: Sprinkle a little garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the wonton wrappers for added flavor.
4. Bake the Wonton Cups: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE SHRIMP

1. Sauté the Shrimp: While the wonton cups are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
2. Season the Shrimp: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside to cool. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Seasoning the Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chopped shrimp in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

THIRD STEP: MAKE THE GUACAMOLE

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a large bowl. Mash the avocados with a fork until smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture.
2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the finely chopped red onion, jalapeños, tomato, and cilantro. Add lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of chili flakes.

FOURTH STEP: ASSEMBLE THE WONTON CUPS

1. Fill the Wonton Cups: Once the wonton cups have cooled slightly, spoon about a tablespoon of guacamole into each cup. Use the back of a spoon to gently press it down and smooth it out.
2. Add the Shrimp: Place a few pieces of seasoned shrimp on top of the guacamole, pressing them gently into the filling.
3. Garnish: Garnish each wonton cup with a small sprig of cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and optionally, a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for added creaminess and tang.

FINAL STEP: SERVE AND ENJOY

1. Serve Immediately: Serve the Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups immediately, either on a large platter or as individual servings.
2. Optional: Keep Warm: If you’re making the cups ahead of time, you can bake the wonton wrappers and cook the shrimp in advance. When ready to serve, simply assemble the cups and enjoy them at room temperature or slightly chilled.

How to Serve Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups

These wonton cups make the perfect appetizer for any gathering or event. Here are a few serving suggestions:

1. Perfect for Parties

These crispy, creamy, and flavorful wonton cups are an excellent choice for any party or event. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, a fancy dinner party, or a holiday gathering, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

2. Pair with Drinks

Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with cold drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or even a refreshing cucumber-mint cocktail. For a more savory pairing, you can offer a chilled white wine or a light beer.

3. Serve as a Snack

These wonton cups can also be served as a delicious snack or light lunch. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp salad to make for a satisfying meal.

4. As Part of a Larger Spread

Include these wonton cups as part of a larger appetizer spread. They pair wonderfully with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, or a charcuterie board. The variety of textures and flavors will make your spread exciting and diverse.

Recipe Variations

While Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups are delicious as is, here are some ways you can customize this recipe to suit your taste:

1. Add Extra Spice

If you enjoy a bit more heat, try adding extra jalapeños or even some finely chopped serrano peppers to the guacamole. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on top of the shrimp for an added kick.

2. Make it Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version of this dish, swap out the shrimp for black beans, grilled vegetables, or even tofu. The guacamole still provides that creamy, flavorful base, and the crunchy wonton cups add a great texture.

3. Use Different Proteins

If shrimp isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it out for other proteins. Grilled chicken, crab meat, or even smoked salmon would be delicious alternatives.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the wonton cups and shrimp ahead of time. Keep the cooked wonton cups in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the cooked shrimp. Assemble the cups just before serving to ensure they stay crisp.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover wonton cups, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The guacamole, however, is best served fresh as it can oxidize and turn brown over time.

Conclusion

Guacamole Shrimp Wonton Cups are the perfect appetizer to add flavor, texture, and excitement to any gathering. With the creamy guacamole, tender shrimp, and crispy wonton wrapper, these cups are the ultimate bite-sized treat that everyone will love. Whether you serve them at a party, enjoy them as a snack, or use them as a fun and creative meal option, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Try this recipe today for a delightful combination of fresh, bold, and satisfying flavors!