Name: Mini Avocado Boats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cooked bacon or chickpeas (optional); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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Short Description

Mini avocado boats are delightful bite‑sized appetizers where avocado halves are filled with flavorful ingredients such as diced tomatoes, onions, herbs, and optional proteins like shrimp or chickpeas. They’re bright, fresh, and perfect for parties or light snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

From its vibrant presentation to its nutritious ingredients, these mini avocado boats offer a burst of flavor with every mouthful. They’re easy to assemble, customizable to your taste, and naturally gluten‑free and vegetarian‑friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe small avocados
Cherry tomatoes, diced
Red onion, finely chopped
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Lime juice
Salt and pepper
Optional: cooked shrimp, chickpeas, feta cheese, or crumbled bacon

Directions

Cut each small avocado in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pit.
Scoop a little extra flesh from each half to widen the hollow slightly; reserve scraps if you want to mix into the filling.
In a bowl, combine diced cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped herbs, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add any optional mix‑ins like shrimp, chickpeas, feta, or bacon.
Stir the filling gently until well combined, tasting to adjust seasoning.
Spoon the mixture into each avocado half, distributing evenly.
Optionally garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Serve immediately while fresh.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 8 mini avocado boats (using 4 small avocados)
Timing: Prep time is approximately 15 minutes; serve immediately for best freshness

Variations

Mediterranean twist: Add chopped cucumber, olives, and feta with a drizzle of olive oil.
Spicy kick: Include diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne in the tomato mixture.
Protein boost: Stir in shredded chicken, canned tuna, or cooked quinoa.
Mexican style: Mix in black beans, corn kernels, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of cumin.

Storage/reheating

Avocados brown quickly once cut, so these are best enjoyed fresh. If you must store:

Cover tightly with plastic wrap or seal in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
To slow browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocados.
No reheating is recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of avocado is best for mini avocado boats?

Choose small, ripe avocados that are firm‑yet‑yielding to the touch—for example, Hass avocados in smaller size work well.

Can I prepare these in advance?

You can assemble the filling a few hours ahead, but fill the avocado halves only just before serving to prevent browning.

How can I prevent the avocado from turning brown?

Brush the exposed avocado flesh with lime or lemon juice and cover tightly with plastic wrap when chilling.

Are these boats suitable for vegans?

Yes—omit any animal‑based optional ingredients like shrimp or feta to keep them vegan friendly.

Can I freeze mini avocado boats?

Freezing is not recommended, as avocados become watery and lose their texture upon thawing.

What are some serving suggestions?

Serve on a platter with toothpicks or small spoons. They pair nicely with a light salad, tortilla chips, or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

Can I switch out ingredients for dietary needs?

Absolutely. Use dairy‑free cheese alternatives, substitute beans or tofu instead of meat, and omit any allergenic ingredients.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply scale the number of avocados and fillings proportionally—e.g. double everything for 16 boats.

Is lime juice essential to the filling?

While not essential, lime juice brightens flavor and helps prevent browning. You may use lemon juice instead if preferred.

Can I add avocado scraps into the filling?

Yes—gently fold in scooped avocado flesh for added creaminess, though it may brown slightly faster in the filling.

Conclusion

Mini avocado boats are a fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing appetizer that’s quick to make and easily customized. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a light snack, they offer satisfying creaminess and versatile combinations to suit your palate