Blackened Shrimp with Avocado Ranch

Delish! We had this for dinner last night, but this would be perfect for a holiday appetizer or finger food! It’s popping with flavor!

Here’s what you need:

1 T olive oil

2 lbs wild caught large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

For the blackening seasoning:

1 T paprika

1 t onion powder

1 t garlic powder

1/2 t dried thyme

1/2 t dried oregano

1/8-1/4 t ground cayenne pepper ( depends on how spicy you want it)

1/4 t salt (or to taste)

For the Avocado ranch dip:

1 avocado

juice of one lime

1/4 t onion powder

1/4 t garlic powder

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/2 t dried parsley

1 T chopped fresh dill

1 T chopped fresh chives

salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients for the blackening seasoning together and set aside. Place all the ingredients for the ranch dip in a food processor and pulse till smooth. Set this aside. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté the shrimp, adding 2-3 T of the blackening seasoning to taste, sauté till cooked through. This will only take a few minutes. Serve immediately with the ranch dip, and lime wedges. Enjoy!