These shrimp and cucumber bites are light, fresh, and super easy to make! You just need some cooked shrimp, crunchy cucumber slices, and a dash of seasoning.
Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer, these little treats always impress! I love how simple they are to whip up—perfect to munch on while watching TV. 🥒🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber is perfect for these bites, adding a nice crunch. If you can’t find a large cucumber, mini cucumbers work well too! Just slice them to a similar thickness.
Shrimp: Use medium shrimp for the best bite-sized pieces. You can also substitute with cooked shrimp or even canned shrimp if you’re in a hurry, but fresh is always better!
Avocado: Look for ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure. If avocados aren’t available, guacamole can be a great alternative.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavor. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice is a good substitute.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a unique depth. Regular paprika works if you don’t have smoked, and feel free to skip the cayenne or adjust according to your spice preference.
How Do You Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp seems tricky, but it’s pretty easy once you know the basics. The key is to cook them quickly over medium-high heat. Here’s how:
- Make sure your shrimp are completely thawed if frozen. Pat them dry for a better sear.
- Heat the olive oil until shimmering, then add the shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook to avoid a rubbery texture!
Rest them for a minute before placing them on the cucumber to keep them juicy. Enjoy your delicious bites!
How to Make Shrimp And Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large cucumber
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 avocado, ripe
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for shrimp seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Time Estimate:
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice when you want a tasty snack or appetizer without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing your cucumber. Slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds and arrange the slices on a serving platter. These will be the base for your shrimp bites!
2. Make the Avocado Mixture:
In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until it’s smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed—this creamy mixture will add great flavor!
3. Assemble the Base:
Take a spoon or a piping bag and spread a small dollop of the avocado mixture onto each cucumber slice. Make sure it’s a nice coating because it adds flavor and creaminess to your bites.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, if you like it spicy. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. This should be quick, so keep an eye on them!
5. Final Assembly:
Place one shrimp on top of the avocado mixture on each cucumber slice. This creates a beautiful layered effect! Don’t forget to admire your work—it looks great!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the bites with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the bites when you’re ready to enjoy them!
These shrimp and cucumber bites are great for entertaining or just for a tasty snack! Enjoy every bite of this refreshing and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Different Seafood for These Bites?
Absolutely! While shrimp is delicious, you can easily substitute with cooked crab meat, scallops, or even smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Keep Avocado From Browning?
To minimize browning, make sure to tightly cover any leftover avocado mixture with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to limit air exposure. Adding a bit more lime juice can also help!
Can I Prepare These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice the cucumbers and prepare the avocado mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated separately until you’re ready to assemble to keep everything fresh.
What Can I Serve with Shrimp and Cucumber Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with a light dipping sauce such as a spicy mayo or cocktail sauce. For a complete spread, consider serving with other appetizers like bruschetta or a charcuterie board.