Whenever I crave something bright, light, and satisfying, this Shrimp & Avocado Soup with Lime hits the spot.

I first made it on a hot summer day when I wanted something comforting but cool — not your typical heavy chowder or creamy soup. It’s zesty, fresh, and full of flavor, with juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, tangy lime, and a touch of spice from jalapeño.

Whether served warm or chilled, it’s the kind of dish that tastes like sunshine in a bowl.

The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With ingredients like olive oil, small onion, garlic, and jalapeño, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying.

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Recipe Highlights

This isn’t your average soup—it’s a low-carb, protein-packed, refreshing meal that combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the succulence of shrimp.

Each bite balances citrus and spice, creating a clean, fresh flavor profile perfect for warm days or light dinners.

It’s quick to prepare, nutrient-dense, and versatile—you can enjoy it warm like a broth-based soup or chilled like a ceviche-inspired bowl.

Highlights:

  • Fresh, flavorful shrimp with a citrus kick
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  • Creamy avocado adds texture and healthy fats
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  • Bright, herby flavors from cilantro and lime
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  • Lightly spicy from jalapeño (adjustable to taste)
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  • Ready in under 30 minutes

Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Soup

This shrimp and avocado soup is a delightful medley of flavors, featuring medium shrimp that are peeled and deveined for a tender bite.

The creamy avocado chunks add richness, while the fresh lime juice brings a zesty brightness to the dish.

Each bowl is a celebration of fresh ingredients, including finely chopped small onions and minced cloves of garlic that form the aromatic base.

A touch of jalapeño, finely diced and with seeds removed for less heat, provides just the right amount of kick.

Ingredient Notes

  • Shrimp: Use raw, peeled, and deveined medium shrimp for the best texture. Cooking them fresh in lime broth keeps them juicy and tender.
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  • Avocado: Adds creaminess and richness while keeping the soup filling and heart-healthy.
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  • Lime Juice: The star flavor — bright, tangy, and refreshing. Use fresh limes only.
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  • Chicken Broth: Provides a light, savory base that complements the shrimp.
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  • Cilantro: Adds fresh, herbal depth and color.
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  • Jalapeño: Brings subtle heat; remove seeds for milder flavor.
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  • Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that build a savory backbone.
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  • Olive Oil: Enhances richness and balances acidity.
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  • Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for rounding out the flavors.

How to Make My Shrimp & Avocado Soup with Lime

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a medium soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño; sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
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  3. Add Broth and Lime Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the lime juice and let it infuse for 2 minutes.
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  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the broth and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
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  5. Add Avocado and Cilantro: Gently stir in diced avocado and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt and lime to taste.
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  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra avocado slices, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves.

Creating the Flavorful Broth

The foundation of this soup is a savory chicken broth that enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and vegetables.

As the broth simmers, the aromas fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Incorporating fresh lime juice into the broth not only brightens the flavors but also complements the creamy avocados that are added later.

This combination creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Preparation Made Easy

Preparing this soup is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 30 minutes.

Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil until they become fragrant and soft.

Next, add the jalapeño and let it cook for a couple of minutes before pouring in the chicken broth.

Once the broth is simmering, toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.

Finishing Touches with Avocado and Cilantro

After the shrimp are cooked, stir in the diced large avocados and let them warm through. This step adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the broth.

Finally, sprinkle in the fresh cilantro, chopped for a burst of herbal flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant green color to the soup, making it visually appealing.

Serving Suggestions for a Perfect Presentation

To serve, ladle the soup into rustic bowls, allowing the colorful ingredients to shine. Accompany each bowl with lime wedges for an extra squeeze of citrus that elevates the dish.

The presentation on a light wooden table creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual gathering or a light meal.

This shrimp and avocado soup is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and beautiful appearance.

Serving Suggestions

This soup shines on its own but pairs beautifully with:

  • Crisp green salad with olive oil and lime dressing
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  • Keto cheese crisps or almond flour tortillas
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  • Grilled asparagus or roasted zucchini
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  • Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a crisp white wine

Nutritional Benefits and Enjoyment

This soup not only delights the palate but also offers a nutritious option. With approximately 285 calories per serving, it provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats from the shrimp and avocado.

Enjoy this dish as a light appetizer or a satisfying main course, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a refreshing meal.

Each bowl is a testament to the joy of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together delightfully.

Tips for the Best Shrimp & Avocado Soup with Lime

Always use fresh lime juice, not bottled—it makes all the difference. Don’t overcook the shrimp; they continue cooking slightly after removing from the heat.

For the avocado, add it last to maintain its creamy texture. If you plan to store leftovers, dice fresh avocado right before serving so it stays bright and firm.

Adjust jalapeño to your heat preference, and use cilantro generously for that fresh finish.

Shrimp & Avocado Soup with Lime – Light and Refreshing

Recipe by JoanneCourse: Soup / Main CourseCuisine: Latin-Inspired / Low-CarbDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories per serving

285

kcal

This soup combines tender shrimp, diced avocados, and a zesty broth made with chicken broth and fresh lime juice. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it a great option for a light meal or starter.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

  • 2 large avocados, diced

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • Lime wedges for serving

Directions

  • Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño; cook until fragrant.
  • Add the chicken broth and lime juice, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in avocado and cilantro.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lime juice.
  • Serve immediately or chill for 1–2 hours for a refreshing cold version.

Notes

  • Add a few drops of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
  • You can add chopped tomatoes or cucumber for a chilled gazpacho-style twist.
  • This soup makes a fantastic light lunch or first course for seafood dinners.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Keep soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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  • Avocado tip: Add fresh avocado right before serving if storing leftovers.
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  • Reheating: Warm gently over low heat; do not boil, as shrimp will toughen.
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  • Freezing: Not recommended due to the texture of the avocado.
Shrimp & Avocado Soup with Lime – Light and Refreshing