This easy shrimp salsa recipe is the ultimate fresh appetizer. Quick to make, full of bold flavor, and perfect for any gathering. It’s the kind of dish that turns heads at cookouts, potlucks, and summer parties.
There’s just something about shrimp mingled with juicy tomatoes and a kick of lime that invites people to linger, scoop after scoop. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a light meal at home, this shrimp salsa is a go-to crowd-pleaser that naturally invites people to gather around the table.
Every summer at Edisto Island, our family turns our fresh catch into this easy and flavor-packed shrimp salsa. With just one skillet and one bowl, it comes together quickly and feels special without the fuss. The savory shrimp, sweet tomatoes, and tangy lime make it a crowd favorite, and it is easy to tweak with a bit of extra spice, avocado, or corn.
Before You Get Started
Let the shrimp come to room temperature for even cooking.
Dice all veggies and measure out your spices ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a nonstick or cast iron skillet to get a quick sear on the shrimp without sticking.
Common Mistakes:
Overcooking the shrimp: They only need about 3 minutes. Watch for that pink color.
Not dicing tomatoes small enough: Smaller pieces help blend the flavors and make scooping easy.
Skipping the chill time: Letting it rest in the fridge allows the salsa to come alive.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Shrimp: Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp with tails removed for easy prep.
- Avocado oil: If unavailable, light olive oil works as a substitute.
- Creole seasoning: You can substitute with Old Bay or Cajun seasoning if you prefer more kick.
- Lime juice: Always use freshly squeezed lime juice. It’s essential for bright, vibrant flavor. One to two limes usually yield enough juice for this recipe.
How to Make Shrimp Salsa
Here’s the step-by-step process for preparing the recipe:
Season and Cook Shrimp
Warm avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning, and cook for about 3 minutes until pink and fully cooked.
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a cutting board and cut into small pieces.
Mix Ingredients
Place the chopped shrimp into a large mixing bowl. Add onion, tomatoes, jalapeños, lime juice, cumin, salt, and cilantro.
Stir all the ingredients together, then refrigerate until ready to serve. It’s best enjoyed cold.
Gina’s Recipe Tips and Variation Ideas
Recipe Tips:
- Try adding diced avocado or mango for a sweet twist.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Want extra flavor? Cook the shrimp with minced garlic or a dash of chili powder.
Recipe Variations:
- Make it a meal by serving over rice or in lettuce wraps. You can pair it with Fresh Mexican Coleslaw Salad or Mexican Brown Rice Salad & Dressing.
- Grill the shrimp for a smoky charred flavor.
- Use an air fryer for crispier shrimp.
Storage Instructions
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes in tomatoes and shrimp.
Make-Ahead: Cook shrimp and chop vegetables a day in advance. Combine just before serving.
Biblical Hospitality Reflection
“Hospitality is how we show the world that God’s love makes room for everyone.” — Intentional Hospitality
1 Peter 4:9 gently reminds us, “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” Hospitality doesn’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful—it just needs to be heartfelt. A bowl of shrimp salsa, lovingly prepared and shared, becomes more than food. It becomes an invitation, a reminder that we’re called to open our homes and our hearts in everyday ways that reflect Christ’s generous love.
Learn more about the heart behind Biblical Hospitality and explore ways to embrace it even on your busiest days in Biblical Hospitality When You Don’t Feel Good.
Hosting Tip: Serve this salsa in a big bowl surrounded by a variety of chips and veggie sticks. Add a pitcher of iced tea and a basket of napkins for an effortless appetizer station.
Do you have a question about the recipe? Feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Fresh Zesty Shrimp Salsa
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
You can add any recipe from Intentional Hospitality to your shopping list to plan a full menu!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 pound shrimp, raw, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
- 1/2 cup onion, sweet yellow, finely diced
- 5 cups Roma tomatoes, diced small
- 2 tablespoons jalapeños, finely diced; adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped small, optional
Instructions
Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.2 tablespoons avocado oil
- Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Creole seasoning.1 pound shrimp, 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
- Cook for about 3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. (Cooking time may vary depending on shrimp size.)
Chop and Mix:
- Transfer shrimp to a cutting board and chop into small pieces.
- Place chopped shrimp in a large mixing bowl.
Combine Ingredients:
- Add onion, tomatoes, jalapeños, lime juice, cumin, salt, and cilantro (if using).1/2 cup onion, 5 cups Roma tomatoes, 2 tablespoons jalapeños, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/3 cup fresh cilantro
- Stir well to combine.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate until ready to serve to let flavors meld. Best served cold.
