This simple yet flavorful recipe of shrimp and couscous foil packets with avocado-mango salsa is a great dish to enjoy during summer cookouts or family gatherings. It is a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, fluffy couscous, and vibrant salsa that packs a punch with its tropical, citrusy flavors. Best of all, it's easy to make and presents beautifully!
Photos of Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa Recipe
The ingredients for this recipe are generally easy to find. However, couscous may not be a common pantry item for everyone. It's a type of North African semolina in granules made from crushed durum wheat. You can usually find it in the grain or international aisle of your supermarket. For the salsa, ensure you choose a firm yet ripe mango and avocado. And for an extra flavor, consider using fresh cilantro and lime juice instead of the bottled ones.
Ingredients for Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa
Olive or vegetable oil cooking spray: Used to prevent the food from sticking to the foil packets.
Spinach: Adds a nice, healthy green color and nutrients to the dish.
Couscous: A key ingredient that adds a unique texture and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients well.
Low sodium chicken broth: Used to cook the couscous and add a layer of flavor.
Large shrimp: The star of the dish, make sure they are deveined.
Fresh lime juice: Gives the dish a fresh, zesty flavor.
Olive oil: Used to cook the shrimp and add a rich, savory flavor.
Cilantro: A fresh herb that adds a burst of flavor and color.
Garlic: Adds a classic, aromatic flavor to the shrimp.
Ground cumin: Gives a warm, earthy flavor to the shrimp.
Mango: Adds a sweet, tropical flavor to the salsa.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, it balances the sweetness of the mango in the salsa.
Tomato: Adds a juicy, tangy flavor to the salsa.
Red onion: Gives a sharp flavor and crunchy texture to the salsa.
One reader, Cordey Lavender says:
This shrimp and couscous foil packets with avocado-mango salsa recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a burst of freshness and the shrimp is perfectly cooked. The salsa adds a delightful twist. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a healthy and delicious meal.
Cooking Techniques for Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa
Preheat the grill: Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to about 450 degrees F.
Layer the foil packets: Cut 8 sheets of 14x12-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil. Layer 2 sheets of foil per packet, with each sheet of foil going opposite directions for each (to have 4 packets total).
Prepare the couscous: In a bowl, toss together couscous and broth and season lightly with salt. Divide couscous among each packet, placing it over spinach.
Season and prepare the shrimp: Toss shrimp with 1½ tablespoons lime juice, 1½ tablespoons olive oil, ¼ cup cilantro, garlic, cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Wrap and seal the foil packets: Wrap foil and crimp edges to seal, then grill sealed side up for about 12 to 14 minutes until shrimp and couscous have cooked through.
Prepare the avocado-mango salsa: In a medium mixing bowl, toss together mango, avocado, tomato, red onion, remaining ¼ cup cilantro, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the dish: Remove packets from the grill, carefully open, and toss contents if desired. Serve warm with avocado-mango salsa.
How To Make Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa
For this shrimp couscous, shrimp is tossed in cilantro lemon mix, grilled, then served over couscous with a refreshing mango avocado salsa.
Serves:
Ingredients
- olive or vegetable oil cooking spray
- 6ozspinach,(about 8 cups) roughly chopped
- 1⅓cupscouscous,not pearl couscous
- 1cuplow sodium chicken broth
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1¼lbslarge shrimp,peeled and deveined
- 2½tbspfresh lime juice,divided
- 2½tbspolive oil,divided
- ½cupcilantro,divided, chopped
- 2garlic,cloves, minced
- 1tspground cumin
- 1large mango,peeled and diced
- 1large avocado,peeled and diced
- 1medium vine ripe tomato,or 2 small Roma tomatoes, diced
- ⅓cupred onion,chopped, rinsed under water and drained
Instructions
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Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to about 450 degrees F.
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Cut 8 sheets of 14×12-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil. Layer 2 sheets of foil per packet, with each sheet of foil going opposite directions for each (to have 4 packets total).
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Spray the center of the top 4 pieces of foil with vegetable oil spray. Layer spinach over each packet.
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In a bowl, toss together couscous and broth and season lightly with salt. Divide couscous among each packet, placing it over spinach.
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Toss shrimp with 1½ tablespoons lime juice, 1½ tablespoons olive oil, ¼ cup cilantro, garlic, cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide shrimp among packets layering over couscous.
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Wrap foil and crimp edges to seal, then grill sealed side up for about 12 to 14 minutes until shrimp and couscous have cooked through.
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Meanwhile, prepare the salsa. In a medium mixing bowl, toss together mango, avocado, tomato, red onion, remaining ¼ cup cilantro, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Remove packets from the grill, carefully open, and toss contents if desired. Serve warm with avocado-mango salsa.
Nutrition
- Calories: 612.63kcal
- Fat: 20.69g
- Saturated Fat: 3.23g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.04g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.91g
- Carbohydrates: 77.86g
- Fiber: 11.12g
- Sugar: 16.71g
- Protein: 32.71g
- Cholesterol: 178.60mg
- Sodium: 1274.51mg
- Calcium: 197.00mg
- Potassium: 1219.31mg
- Iron: 3.63mg
- Vitamin A: 357.71µg
- Vitamin C: 68.86mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting This Recipe
When preparing the avocado-mango salsa, it's best to cut the avocado and mango into similar-sized pieces to ensure a consistent texture and flavor in every bite. Also, remember to add the lime juice immediately after cutting the avocado to prevent it from browning. For the shrimp, make sure not to overcook them on the grill as they can become tough and rubbery. They're done as soon as they turn pink. Lastly, when sealing the foil packets, leave a bit of space for heat circulation to ensure even cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish
Prep ahead: Prepare the avocado-mango salsa and marinate the shrimp in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked shrimp: To save time, consider using pre-cooked shrimp that only needs to be heated through on the grill.
Double up: Make extra foil packets and freeze them for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.
Invest in a grill basket: Using a grill basket can help cook the shrimp and couscous more evenly and efficiently.
Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut mango, avocado, and onion to minimize prep time.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa Recipe
shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp to create a similar foil packet dish with a different protein source. The chicken will provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish.
couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a substitute for couscous to provide a gluten-free alternative with a similar texture and nutty flavor. It also offers a higher protein content.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to maintain the savory flavor in the dish while catering to vegetarian or vegan dietary preferences.
shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops can be used as a substitute for shrimp to provide a similar seafood element in the foil packets. They offer a delicate texture and sweet flavor.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro to provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor without the distinctive taste of cilantro, which some people may find unpleasant.
mango - Substitute with pineapple: Pineapple can be used as a substitute for mango to provide a sweet and tangy flavor in the salsa, adding a tropical twist to the dish.
avocado - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for avocado to provide a creamy element in the salsa while reducing the fat content and offering a tangy flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets
Elevate the foil packets: Carefully unwrap the foil packets at the table to reveal the aromatic steam and visually stunning presentation of the shrimp and couscous. This adds an element of surprise and excitement to the dining experience.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro over the top of the foil packets just before serving. This not only adds a pop of vibrant green color but also infuses the dish with a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Arrange the avocado-mango salsa: Skillfully spoon the vibrant and colorful avocado-mango salsa onto the center of the plate, creating an eye-catching and appetizing presentation. The contrast of colors and textures will captivate the diners' attention.
Use elegant serving platters: Present the foil packets and the accompanying avocado-mango salsa on elegant, chic serving platters or plates. This adds a touch of sophistication and refinement to the overall presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: For an extra touch of elegance, delicately place a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, around the perimeter of the plate. The vibrant colors and delicate petals will enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Add a drizzle of lime-infused oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of lime-infused olive oil over the shrimp and couscous. This not only adds a subtle citrusy flavor but also creates a glossy sheen, elevating the overall presentation.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ professional plating techniques such as quenelle or stacking to arrange the shrimp and couscous on the plate. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and artistry in the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
- Gas grill: A gas grill is a cooking appliance used for grilling food by applying heat from below. It is a convenient tool for outdoor cooking and imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the food.
- Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is a versatile kitchen essential used for wrapping and covering food for cooking, storing, and keeping it warm. It helps in sealing in flavors and juices while cooking in foil packets.
- Vegetable oil spray: Vegetable oil spray is a non-stick cooking spray used to coat surfaces of cookware and foil to prevent food from sticking during grilling or baking.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining and tossing ingredients together, such as marinating shrimp or preparing the avocado-mango salsa.
- Grill tongs: Grill tongs are long-handled tools used for flipping and turning food on the grill. They provide a safe and convenient way to handle the shrimp foil packets while grilling.
- Cutting board: A cutting board is used for chopping and preparing ingredients such as mango, avocado, tomato, and red onion for the avocado-mango salsa.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and preparing the ingredients for the avocado-mango salsa, ensuring precise and clean cuts.
- Medium mixing bowl: A medium mixing bowl is used for tossing together the ingredients for the avocado-mango salsa, allowing for easy mixing and combining of flavors.
- Grill spatula: A grill spatula is a tool used for lifting and flipping delicate foods, such as the shrimp foil packets, on the grill without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure and portion ingredients such as couscous, chicken broth, lime juice, and olive oil for the recipe.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets
Let the shrimp and couscous foil packets cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the packaging, which can lead to soggy or mushy couscous and shrimp.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled foil packets to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. The shrimp and couscous foil packets will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the foil packets. Wrap each packet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents. Frozen shrimp and couscous foil packets will keep for up to 2 months.
To reheat refrigerated foil packets, place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual packets on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen foil packets, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions for refrigerated packets.
It's best to store the avocado-mango salsa separately from the foil packets. Transfer the salsa to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat. Give the salsa a quick stir before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets
To reheat leftover shrimp and couscous foil packets in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp and couscous are heated through. Be careful when opening the packets, as steam will escape.
If you prefer to use the microwave, transfer the contents of the foil packets to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the couscous from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp and couscous are heated through. Stir the contents halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the shrimp and couscous in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the contents of the foil packets to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp and couscous are heated through and slightly crispy.
To maintain the best quality of the avocado-mango salsa, store it separately from the shrimp and couscous foil packets. When reheating, add the salsa to the shrimp and couscous after they have been heated through. This will prevent the avocado and mango from becoming mushy or discolored.
If you find that the reheated couscous is a bit dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to help moisten it. This will help restore the fluffy texture of the couscous.
Interesting Trivia About Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets
The shrimp and couscous foil packets with avocado-mango salsa recipe is a delicious and healthy meal that can be easily prepared and cooked on the grill. This recipe is a great option for a quick and flavorful dinner, especially during the summer months. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and pairs well with the light and refreshing avocado-mango salsa. Additionally, the use of foil packets makes for easy cleanup and adds a fun element to the cooking process. This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal while spending time outdoors with friends and family.
Budget-Friendly: Making Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets at Home
The shrimp and couscous foil packets with avocado-mango salsa recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of shrimp and avocado may increase the overall cost, but the dish offers a delightful and flavorful dining experience. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$35. The dish earns a solid 8/10 rating for its taste, presentation, and nutritional value.
Is This Shrimp and Couscous Recipe Healthy?
The shrimp and couscous foil packets with avocado-mango salsa recipe is a healthy and well-balanced meal. Here's why:
- Lean protein: Shrimp is a low-calorie, lean protein source that provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
- Whole grains: Couscous is a whole grain that offers fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium and magnesium.
- Nutrient-dense vegetables: Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron. The avocado-mango salsa adds more vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
- Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil and avocado provide monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
- Low in sodium: Using low-sodium chicken broth and limiting added salt helps control sodium intake.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the packets for extra nutrients and fiber.
- Use whole wheat couscous instead of regular couscous to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the shrimp marinade and salsa to lower the overall calorie count.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a metabolism-boosting kick.
- Serve the packets with a side salad or extra steamed vegetables to make the meal even more filling and nutritious.
Editor's Opinion on This Shrimp and Couscous Recipe
The combination of succulent shrimp, fluffy couscous, and vibrant avocado-mango salsa creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The foil packet method ensures that the ingredients are infused with smoky grilled notes, elevating the dish to a new level. The use of fresh, wholesome ingredients and the balance of zesty lime juice and fragrant cilantro showcase a thoughtful approach to culinary composition. This recipe offers a delightful dining experience that is both visually appealing and satisfying to the palate.
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Why trust this Shrimp and Couscous Foil Packets with Avocado-Mango Salsa Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The succulent shrimp is marinated in zesty lime juice and aromatic cilantro, while the couscous is infused with savory chicken broth. The addition of vibrant mango and creamy avocado in the salsa provides a refreshing contrast. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience.
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