These Shrimp and Cucumber Bites are fresh and fun! With juicy shrimp on crisp cucumber slices, they’re perfect for a light snack or party appetizer.
They’re so easy to make that you’ll feel like a chef! Just top the cucumbers, and you have a tasty treat ready in no time. Great for impressing friends! 🦐🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber gives a refreshing crunch. You can use English cucumbers as a substitute; they are sweeter and have fewer seeds. For different textures, try zucchini slices!
Shrimp: Medium-sized shrimp are great for presentation. If you prefer, you can use cooked shrimp to save time. Just heat them up a bit before serving!
Avocado: A ripe avocado is essential for a smooth spread. If avocados are out of season, you can try using hummus or guacamole for a similar creamy texture.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. For a spicier kick, consider chili powder or cayenne pepper.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s easy once you follow these steps! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Use medium heat to avoid overcooking. If the heat is too high, the shrimp can become rubbery.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side. They turn pink when done—watch closely!
- Let them rest for a minute after cooking; this helps lock in moisture.
These steps help keep shrimp tender and juicy, making your bites even more delicious!
Shrimp And Cucumber Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber
- 12 medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. The cooking time for the shrimp is quick, making this a speedy option for a tasty appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Season the shrimp with a little salt, pepper, garlic powder, and half of the smoked paprika for flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a medium frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful pink color and are cooked through. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Make the Avocado Spread:
While your shrimp are cooking, grab your ripe avocado! Peel it, remove the pit, and mash the flesh in a bowl. Add the lime juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Prepare the Cucumber:
Wash your cucumber well, and slice it into rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick. These will be the perfect bite-sized base for your shrimp!
5. Assemble the Bites:
Take each cucumber slice and spread or pipe a nice dollop of the avocado mash on top. Be generous—this layer is what brings all the flavors together!
6. Top with Shrimp:
Carefully place one cooked shrimp on each avocado-topped cucumber slice. This step is simple but makes your bites look beautiful!
7. Garnish:
To finish, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika and some chopped fresh cilantro over the shrimp for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your delicious shrimp and cucumber bites on a serving platter. Serve them immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy every delightful bite!
These shrimp and cucumber bites are a great way to impress guests or treat yourself to a light snack that’s bursting with flavor!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp are a great time-saver. Just heat them gently in a pan for a minute or two to warm them up before assembling your bites.
How do I Choose a Ripe Avocado?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. If it’s firm, it’s not ripe yet; if it feels too mushy, it might be overripe. Aim for one that’s soft but not squishy for perfect mash!
Can I Make the Avocado Mash Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Just keep it airtight to prevent browning. Add a little extra lime juice and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the mash.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to customize! Adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor. Feta cheese or crumbled bacon would also make delicious toppings!