Description
Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Cucumber Bites
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large cucumber (sliced into rounds)
1 ripe avocado
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped, plus more for garnish)
Directions
Season the shrimp: Toss the shrimp with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the avocado spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and chopped cilantro. Season with a pinch of salt.
Assemble the bites: Spread a dollop of the avocado mixture on each cucumber slice. Top with a cooked shrimp.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with extra cilantro and serve immediately as a fresh, healthy appetizer!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Servings: 6 (2-3 bites per serving)
Calories: 110 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. First, ensure your shrimp are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning; this helps the spices adhere and promotes a better sear. For the avocado spread, use a fork to mash it to a slightly chunky consistency—over-mashing can make it too runny. When assembling, use a small spoon or a piping bag for neat avocado portions on the cucumber rounds. If preparing ahead, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving to prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are incredibly versatile. For a party, arrange them on a large platter with lime wedges and a drizzle of sriracha or chipotle aioli. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light Mexican lager. To turn them into a light lunch, serve over a bed of mixed greens with an extra squeeze of lime. For a dairy-free creamy alternative, mix a tablespoon of vegan mayonnaise into the avocado spread.
How-to Summary
This recipe creates a fresh, low-carb appetizer in under 20 minutes. Simply season and sauté shrimp with chili powder and paprika. Mash avocado with lime and cilantro to create a spread. Layer the spread and a shrimp onto cucumber rounds. Garnish and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bites ahead of time? You can prep components up to 4 hours ahead. Store cooked shrimp, avocado spread (with plastic wrap pressed directly on its surface), and sliced cucumber separately in the fridge. Assemble within 30 minutes of serving.
What’s the best substitute for fresh shrimp? High-quality cooked, chilled shrimp work well. Thaw completely, pat dry, and toss lightly with the dry spices and a dash of olive oil for flavor.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning? The lime juice in the spread helps, but ensuring the plastic wrap touches the surface of the spread is crucial. Adding the cilantro also helps slow oxidation.
My cucumber slices are too slippery. Any tips? After slicing, lay the rounds on a paper towel and gently pat the tops dry. This creates a better surface for the avocado to stick to.
Can I use a different vegetable base? Absolutely. Endive leaves, bell pepper squares, or even thick slices of jicama make excellent, crunchy alternatives to cucumber.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Cook just until opaque and pink. Do not skip drying the shrimp and cucumber, as excess moisture makes assembly messy and dilutes flavor. Season the avocado spread adequately; under-seasoning is a common oversight that leaves it tasting bland. Finally, do not assemble too far in advance, or the cucumber will release water and the bites will lose their structural integrity.
Conclusion
These Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Cucumber Bites are the epitome of a quick, impressive, and healthy appetizer. They successfully balance spicy, creamy, and crunchy textures in one elegant bite. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that proves healthy eating can be full of vibrant flavor. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.