Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. This recipe showcases juicy grilled shrimp piled high on crispy tostada shells, complemented by creamy guacamole and fresh pico de gallo. It’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or festive gatherings.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For the Tostadas
- For the Toppings
- For Garnish
- How to Make Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 2: Grill the Shrimp
- Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas
- Step 4: Add Toppings
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Classic Presentation
- Taco Bar Style
- Plated Service
- How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Reheating Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I serve with Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo?
- Can I make Grilled Shrimp Tostadas ahead of time?
- How do I customize my Grilled Shrimp Tostadas?
- How long does it take to grill shrimp?
- What type of shrimp should I use?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices on the shrimp and the freshness of the toppings creates a flavor explosion.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tostadas as a main course or appetizer, suitable for any gathering.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create these tasty Grilled Shrimp Tostadas, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfectly cooked shrimp.
- Mixing bowl: Makes marinating the shrimp easy and effective.
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping shrimp on the grill without losing their juices.
- Serving platter: A beautiful way to present your finished tostadas to guests.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tostadas
- 8 tostada shells
For the Toppings
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
For Garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Grill the Shrimp
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas
Spread a generous layer of guacamole on each tostada shell.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Top each tostada with grilled shrimp, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Shrimp Tostadas!
How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
Grilled shrimp tostadas are a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tostadas make for an exciting meal.
Classic Presentation
- Layered Delight: Start with a base of guacamole, followed by the grilled shrimp, and top with pico de gallo. This creates a beautiful layered effect.
- Garnish with Lime: Add fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick that complements the flavors.
Taco Bar Style
- DIY Tostada Station: Set up a taco bar where guests can build their own tostadas. Provide all toppings separately for a fun interactive experience.
- Variety of Salsas: Offer different types of salsas alongside pico de gallo for added flavor options.
Plated Service
- Elegant Plating: Arrange the tostadas on a large platter, garnished with cilantro and lime slices for an appealing presentation.
- Accompanying Salads: Serve with a side salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.
How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
Perfecting grilled shrimp tostadas is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
- Bold Seasoning: Make sure to season the shrimp generously. The right amount of chili powder and cumin will elevate the overall taste.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for guacamole and pico de gallo. Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor.
- Right Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve that perfect char on the shrimp without overcooking them.
- Crisp Tostada Shells: Ensure that your tostada shells are crispy. You can bake or fry them until golden before assembling.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy these tostadas right after preparation for the best texture and taste. They can get soggy if left too long.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like radishes or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
Pairing side dishes with grilled shrimp tostadas enhances your dining experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn: Sweet corn coated in lime, chili, and cheese makes for a deliciously creamy side.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime adds protein and crunch.
- Mango Salsa: This sweet and spicy salsa provides a fruity contrast that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and cilantro serves as a great base for any meal.
- Guacamole Dip Platter: Offer additional guacamole alongside tortilla chips as a fun appetizer before serving tostadas.
- Grilled Vegetables: Assorted grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Chips and Salsa Trio: Serve different types of salsas (like tomatillo or roasted red pepper) alongside crunchy tortilla chips for variety.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers crispness that balances out the rich flavors of the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so watch the time. Remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Using stale tostada shells: Fresh tostada shells enhance the dish’s crunch and flavor. Check the expiration date or opt for homemade shells.
Skipping seasoning: Properly seasoning your shrimp is key to flavor. Don’t skip the olive oil, chili powder, and cumin; they elevate the dish significantly.
Not letting guacamole sit: If you’re preparing guacamole ahead of time, let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Ignoring toppings balance: Ensure you have an even distribution of guacamole, pico de gallo, and lettuce on each tostada. Too much of one topping can unbalance flavors.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled shrimp tostadas in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Freeze grilled shrimp in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Tostada shells can also be frozen; just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping carefully to maintain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo?
Pair these tostadas with a light salad or corn on the cob for a fresh, vibrant meal.
Can I make Grilled Shrimp Tostadas ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the shrimp and toppings in advance but assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.
How do I customize my Grilled Shrimp Tostadas?
Feel free to add ingredients like diced avocado, jalapeños, or cheese according to your taste preferences!
How long does it take to grill shrimp?
Grilling shrimp typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo shrimp works best for grilling as they hold up well on the grill and provide a satisfying bite.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be customized with various toppings or served alongside other dishes. Whether it’s a summer night gathering or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy all the vibrant flavors!
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Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole & Pico de Gallo are a perfect blend of fresh flavors and satisfying textures, making them an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tostadas feature juicy, grilled shrimp atop crispy tostada shells, layered with creamy guacamole and vibrant pico de gallo. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is both quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you can serve up a delicious meal without the hassle. With customizable toppings and healthy ingredients, these tostadas are sure to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 8 tostada shells
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
- Spread guacamole generously on each tostada shell.
- Top with grilled shrimp, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tostada (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 220mg