This Shrimps in Culichi Salsa is a lighter, dairy-free twist on the classic Mexican dish, “Camarones en Salsa Culichi.” Traditionally made with Mexican crema and cheese, this healthier version swaps in avocado and coconut yogurt for a rich, creamy texture without the saturated fats. Roasted poblano and serrano chiles give the green sauce its signature flavor and vibrant color, making it perfect as a dipping appetizer, taco filling, or rice bowl topper.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 poblano green chili peppers

• 2 serrano green chili peppers

• 2 garlic cloves

• 4 spring onions (40g), chopped

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 100g coconut yogurt

• 1/4 avocado

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 200g raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: lime wedges, extra cilantro, black pepper for garnish

Directions

1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F). Chop poblano and serrano chiles, garlic, and spring onions. Place on a roasting tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, tossing halfway through.

2. Make the salsa: Add roasted vegetables to a food processor with coconut yogurt, avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and a splash of water. Blend until creamy and smooth.

3. Cook the shrimp: In a non-stick skillet, pan-fry shrimp over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.

4. Serve: Pour culichi salsa into bowls and top with cooked shrimp. Garnish with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, and black pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrients (Per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 225

• Protein: ~20g

• Fat: ~12g

• Saturated Fat: ~3.5g

• Carbohydrates: ~10g

• Fiber: ~3g

• Sugar: ~3g

• Sodium: ~250mg

A Dairy-Free Take on a Mexican Favorite

Camarones en Salsa Culichi has deep roots in Sinaloan cuisine, known for its generous use of seafood and bold green sauces. Traditionally, the “culichi” salsa gets its creaminess from heavy dairy—typically crema, sour cream, or even cheese. While delicious, this traditional preparation can be heavy and less suitable for those avoiding dairy or aiming to reduce their intake of saturated fats.

This lighter version maintains the integrity and richness of the dish through the clever use of coconut yogurt and avocado. These two ingredients blend seamlessly with the roasted chiles to create a sauce that is both luscious and full-bodied, with none of the guilt. The result is a dish that tastes indulgent but supports wellness, making it a great fit for modern clean-eating lifestyles without sacrificing the deep cultural flavor notes that make culichi dishes so popular.

The Power of Poblano and Serrano Chiles

What gives this salsa its bold green hue and complex flavor is the careful selection and roasting of poblano and serrano chiles. Poblano peppers offer a rich, smoky depth without overwhelming spice, making them the perfect base for the sauce. Roasting them intensifies their flavor, drawing out a subtle sweetness and an earthy undertone that is signature to culichi sauces.

Serrano peppers bring a lively kick, giving the salsa a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and the creaminess of the avocado and coconut yogurt. Their brightness cuts through the richness of the sauce, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s dynamic but not overpowering. Together, these chiles form the backbone of the salsa, delivering authenticity with a punch.

Avocado and Coconut Yogurt for Creaminess

The brilliance of this dairy-free culichi salsa lies in the combination of avocado and coconut yogurt. Avocado, already a staple in many Latin American dishes, brings a buttery, silky texture and healthy fats that contribute to the mouthfeel of the dish. Coconut yogurt, on the other hand, lends a subtle tang that mimics the acidity and body of traditional dairy-based ingredients.

This pairing creates a sauce that feels indulgent without the weight. It also adds nutritional benefits: avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats and fiber, while coconut yogurt often contains probiotics and healthy medium-chain triglycerides. These ingredients work synergistically, producing a sauce that is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Shrimp: Lean Protein That Shines

Shrimp is the perfect protein for this dish. Quick-cooking, low in calories, and high in protein, it pairs effortlessly with the richness of the culichi salsa. In this version, the shrimp are simply pan-seared until pink and opaque—a method that keeps the cooking process simple and highlights the natural sweetness and tenderness of the shrimp.

Shrimp also plays nicely with the bold flavors of the salsa, allowing the sauce to shine while adding satisfying texture and substance. Whether you serve it spooned over the sauce or gently folded into it, the shrimp hold their own and contribute lean, quality protein to the dish.

Versatility That Inspires Creativity

One of the most appealing aspects of Shrimps in Culichi Salsa is its versatility. While delicious on its own as a main course, this dish also works wonderfully in a variety of contexts. Spoon it over steamed rice or quinoa for a nourishing grain bowl. Tuck it into warm tortillas with shredded lettuce and lime for refreshing tacos. Or serve it with crispy tortilla chips or baked plantains as a vibrant party appetizer.

The sauce itself can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making meal prep effortless. You can also use it as a base for other proteins such as grilled chicken, tofu, or fish, turning it into a weeknight go-to sauce that elevates any ingredient it touches.

Bright, Fresh Garnishes for Balance

Garnishing this dish is not just about aesthetics—it’s about enhancing flavor and balance. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the richness of the sauce, while fresh cilantro adds herbal freshness. Cracked black pepper introduces a subtle bite, and extra chili flakes or sliced serrano can increase the heat for those who like it spicier.

You can also serve the dish with a side of lightly dressed greens, roasted vegetables, or even a dollop of pico de gallo to contrast the smoothness of the sauce. The interplay of fresh, spicy, creamy, and zesty makes every bite exciting and layered.

A Nutritional Powerhouse in a Small Bowl

With just around 225 calories per serving and a balanced macronutrient profile, this dish is as smart as it is satisfying. It provides approximately 20 grams of protein from shrimp, while healthy fats from avocado and olive oil keep you full and energized. Carbohydrate content is moderate, and fiber comes naturally from vegetables and herbs.

Thanks to the absence of dairy and the use of clean, whole ingredients, this recipe supports a range of dietary needs, including dairy-free, gluten-free, low-carb, and paleo-inspired plans. It’s also a wonderful option for those interested in anti-inflammatory diets or simply reducing processed ingredients.

A Dish That Connects Tradition and Innovation

This recipe is a perfect example of how traditional recipes can be thoughtfully reimagined for today’s kitchens. It respects the core elements of culichi-style cooking while providing healthier, plant-based alternatives to conventional ingredients. The result is a dish that feels both familiar and fresh—deeply rooted in Mexican flavor profiles, yet modern and accessible.

It’s ideal for food lovers who want to explore international cuisines without compromising on dietary preferences, and it demonstrates how health-conscious cooking doesn’t have to mean sacrificing depth, richness, or enjoyment.

Conclusion

Shrimps in Culichi Salsa is a bold, satisfying, and health-forward take on a Mexican favorite. With roasted chiles, creamy avocado, coconut yogurt, and tender shrimp, it delivers a balanced flavor profile that’s comforting yet light. This dairy-free interpretation not only makes the dish more inclusive, but also adds a refreshing twist that complements modern wellness goals.

Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and endlessly versatile, it’s a dish that suits weeknight dinners, meal prep routines, or elegant entertaining alike. Whether you serve it with rice, tacos, or as a dip, it’s sure to impress both traditionalists and those seeking something new. Add Shrimps in Culichi Salsa to your culinary rotation, and enjoy a fusion of authenticity, creativity, and nourishment all in one beautifully green, flavorful bowl.