Blackened Shrimp with Creamy Avocado Ranch Dressing

Blackened shrimp are juicy and full of flavor, served alongside a cool, creamy avocado ranch dressing. This healthy, crowd-pleasing appetizer is simple to prepare and works equally well as a starter, salad topping, taco filling, or main course.

I love entertaining and offering a variety of appetizers. Alongside richer options, a lighter choice like blackened shrimp with avocado ranch helps balance the spread while still feeling special and flavorful.

The warm, spicy seasoning on the shrimp pairs perfectly with the herb-forward, creamy avocado ranch. The dressing uses avocado to add body and richness, eliminating the need for mayonnaise or sour cream.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Pan-seared blackened shrimp coated in a bold seasoning, served with a cool avocado ranch.
• Versatile: serve it as an appetizer, over salad, in tacos, or as a quick weeknight main.
• Minimal hands-on time; much of the prep can be done ahead.
• Gluten-free and easily made dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk for the buttermilk substitute.

Recipe ingredients

Ingredient notes

• Shrimp: Wild jumbo shrimp are ideal. Use raw, peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp both work.
• Blackened seasoning: A homemade blend gives the best control over heat. Start with 2 tablespoons for milder flavor or use 3 tablespoons for a spicier finish (for 2 lbs. shrimp).
• Avocado: One small ripe avocado (or half a large) adds creaminess and body to the dressing without mayo.
• Buttermilk: Use real buttermilk or make a dairy-free version by adding 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup non-dairy milk and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
• Herbs and spices: Garlic and onion powder add depth to the dressing, while fresh dill, chives and parsley brighten the flavor.

How to make blackened shrimp

This recipe comes together quickly. Most prep—like measuring the seasoning and chopping herbs—can be completed in advance.

Pro tip: Mix the blackened seasoning a day ahead and buy peeled, deveined shrimp to save time.

1. Toss the raw shrimp with the blackened seasoning and salt to taste until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes until seared, then flip and cook another 2 minutes or until pink and opaque.
3. Remove from the pan and, if desired, finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

How to make avocado ranch dressing

The avocado ranch is quick to blend and complements the spicy shrimp perfectly. The avocado adds thickness so you can skip higher-fat binders like mayonnaise.

Pro tip: Prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and store it chilled in an airtight container.

1. Combine avocado, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, buttermilk, chopped dill, chives and parsley in a food processor or blender.
2. Process until smooth. Add additional buttermilk if you prefer a thinner consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

FAQs

Serving suggestions

Blackened shrimp are versatile. Try any of these serving ideas:

• Toss the shrimp with mixed greens, veggies and avocado ranch for a bold salad.
• Use the shrimp as a taco filling with pineapple salsa, pico de gallo, or chopped cabbage.
• Build taco bowls over cilantro-lime rice with guacamole and roasted corn.
• Serve as an easy weeknight meal alongside a simple corn and tomato salad or classic coleslaw.

Recipe notes

• Prep tip: Make the blackened seasoning and avocado ranch up to a day ahead. Buying peeled and deveined shrimp saves prep time.
• Control spiciness by adjusting the amount of blackened seasoning. Start with less if you prefer milder heat.
• To make dairy-free buttermilk, combine 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1/2 cup non-dairy milk and let sit 10 minutes.
• Leftovers of both shrimp and dressing will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store separately for best texture.

More shrimp recipes you’ll love:

• Spicy lime grilled shrimp
• Orange garlic shrimp
• Pineapple shrimp skewers
• Shrimp ceviche with mango and avocado salsa
• Shrimp Louie salad

Did you try this recipe? If so, please leave a review below and tag the creator on social channels so others can find this recipe.

Note: This post was originally published in January 2018. Photos and text have been updated for clarity and improved readability.