Shrimp, Cucumber, and Avocado Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, these bites come together in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Packed with nutritious ingredients like cucumber, avocado, and shrimp, they make for a wholesome treat.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors and elegant presentation make them a standout addition to any platter.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Avocado Spread:

• 1 ripe avocado
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

For Assembly:

• 1 English cucumber, sliced into 22 rings
• Additional lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, chopped cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with salt and lime juice until creamy.
4. Assemble the Bites: Spread a generous amount of the mashed avocado onto each cucumber slice. Top with a cooked shrimp.
5. Garnish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled bites and garnish with additional chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 22 shrimp cucumber bites.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Seasoning Adjustments: For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to ¼ teaspoon or omit it entirely.
• Guacamole Base: Replace the mashed avocado with store-bought or homemade guacamole for added flavor.
• Shrimp Alternatives: Grilled or boiled shrimp can be used instead of sautéed for a different taste and texture.
• Cucumber Base: Use zucchini slices or whole-grain crackers as a base for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

These bites are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store the components separately:

• Shrimp: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Avocado Spread: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day to prevent browning.
• Cucumber Slices: Keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Assemble the bites just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture.

FAQs

How can I make these bites spicier?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Simply toss them in the seasoning and briefly heat them in the skillet to absorb the flavors.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas seasoned with the same spices for a vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Adding lime juice to the mashed avocado helps prevent browning. Storing it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface also helps maintain its color.

Can I prepare these bites in advance?

It's best to assemble them just before serving. However, you can prepare the shrimp, avocado spread, and cucumber slices in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bites right before serving to ensure freshness.

Can I make these bites into a larger dish?

Yes, you could turn these into a larger salad by serving the shrimp, avocado, and cucumber over a bed of greens or mixing them with quinoa or rice.

Are these bites gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly. They will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Conclusion

Shrimp, Cucumber, and Avocado Bites are a delicious and refreshing appetizer that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and a satisfying mix of textures, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

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Shrimp, Cucumber, and Avocado Bites

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These Shrimp, Cucumber, and Avocado Bites are a fresh and healthy appetizer featuring succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp cucumber. The perfect blend of savory, creamy, and crunchy, these bites are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a light snack, they offer a visually appealing, gluten-free option that will impress your guests.

 

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minute
• Yield: 22 shrimp cucumber bite
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• For the Shrimp:
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• For the Avocado Spread:
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
• For Assembly:
  • 1 English cucumber, sliced into 22 rings
  • Additional lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

• Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, chopped cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
• Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Prepare the Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with salt and lime juice until smooth.
• Assemble the Bites: Spread the avocado mixture on each cucumber slice. Top with a cooked shrimp.
• Garnish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the bites and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper.
• Use grilled or boiled shrimp for a different taste and texture.
• For a gluten-free option, try zucchini slices or whole-grain crackers as a base.