If you love a fresh, flavorful appetizer that dazzles your guests without any fuss, then the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These vibrant little bites combine smoky, spicy blackened shrimp with creamy mashed avocado and crisp cucumber slices, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feel indulgent yet light. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a snack with a punch, these bites bring a perfect balance of zest, creaminess, and crunch that’s irresistibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe is easy because the ingredients are straightforward yet packed with purpose. Each component brings its own special touch—from the smoky heat of the spices on the shrimp to the refreshing crispness of the cucumber, plus the smooth richness of avocado to tie it all together with color and flavor.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein that gets that irresistible blackened coating and juicy bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the shrimp and ensures they cook up perfectly without sticking.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a deep, smoky flavor that’s essential for that blackened taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory note that enhances the shrimp without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and depth to the spice mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbal touch that balances the spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives the shrimp a lively kick of heat—adjust according to your spice tolerance!
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple essentials that bring all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 large avocado (mashed): Creamy and buttery, it cools the spice and adds a luscious texture contrast.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Adds bright acidity that wakes up the avocado and shrimp flavors.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Provides herbal freshness that’s colorful and aromatic.
- 1 large English cucumber (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): Crisp, cool rounds that act as the crunchy base to hold everything.
- Optional: extra cilantro or red pepper flakes for garnish: For a pop of visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor if desired.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl with olive oil. Then, sprinkle over smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated in this flavorful spice mix. This seasoning is what creates the signature smoky, spicy crust once cooked, so don’t be shy about coating the shrimp thoroughly.
Step 2: Cook Until Blackened
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. The goal is a slightly charred, blackened exterior without overcooking the shrimp, which should remain juicy and tender. The aroma at this point will start filling your kitchen with mouthwatering smoky notes that signal how good this recipe is.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Mixture
While the shrimp are sizzling, mash the avocado in a bowl with lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. The lime juice ensures the avocado mixture stays bright and green while adding a lovely citrusy zing that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. This mash will act like a creamy, cooling sauce complementing the spicy blackened shrimp.
Step 4: Assemble the Bites
Lay out your cucumber slices on a serving platter. Use a small spoon to dollop a generous teaspoon of the avocado mixture onto each cucumber round. Then, gently place one blackened shrimp on top of the avocado. If you like, sprinkle some extra cilantro leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes on each bite for a colorful and appetizing finish. These bites come together quickly but look like you spent hours crafting a sophisticated appetizer.
How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Enhancing these bites with fresh garnishes is a fun and easy way to customize your presentation. Think vibrant sprigs of cilantro or a light dusting of red pepper flakes for flair and a gentle heat boost. You could also add a few drops of a creamy ranch or chipotle mayo on the side for dipping, bringing in an additional layer of richness if desired.
Side Dishes
While these bites are fantastic as a stand-alone appetizer, they pair beautifully with simple sides like a bright, zesty salad or even tortilla chips for extra crunch. For a heartier flavor profile, you might serve alongside a light quinoa salad, which complements the shrimp without overpowering the fresh, summery vibe of the bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation matters, and with the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe you have lots of creative freedom. Try serving them on a rustic wooden board or a bright, patterned platter to highlight the vibrant greens and reds. For a party, you could skewer the shrimp and cucumber with a small decorative pick to make eating easier and more fun, turning these bites into elegant finger food that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp and avocado mixture separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp stay nicely for up to 2 days, while the avocado mix is best consumed within 24 hours to keep its bright color and fresh taste. Keep cucumber slices fresh on the side to assemble just before serving, as they can get soggy if preassembled.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture of shrimp and avocado, freezing the assembled bites is not recommended. Blackened shrimp can be frozen separately for up to 2 months if wrapped well, but the avocado mixture and cucumber slices do not freeze well. For best results, prepare fresh or freeze only the shrimp portion ahead of time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover blackened shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through; this helps maintain their juicy texture without drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Assemble your bites fresh with chilled cucumber and avocado for that perfect combination of temperatures and textures.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This ensures the spices stick well and the shrimp blacken nicely instead of steaming.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe contains no gluten-containing ingredients, making it a perfect gluten-free appetizer option.
How spicy are these bites?
They have a pleasant kick from the cayenne pepper, but it’s not overwhelming. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the cayenne or by adding red pepper flakes as garnish.
Can I substitute the cucumber for something else?
If cucumber isn’t your favorite, try using sliced bell peppers or endive leaves for a similar crunchy, fresh base that holds up well to the toppings.
What drink pairs well with this appetizer?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer pairs wonderfully. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime to keep things fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the ease and flavor-packed punch of the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe. It’s a dish that feels elegant yet is wonderfully simple to prepare, making it ideal for impressing friends or indulging yourself anytime. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how these bites can brighten up any gathering or snack time with their lively flavors and delightful textures. Your appetizer game just got a whole lot better!
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Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 bites 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are a flavorful and light appetizer perfect for parties or a healthy snack. Juicy, blackened shrimp seasoned with smoky spices rest atop creamy avocado-mashed lime-spiked spread on crisp cucumber slices, offering a refreshing and low-carb bite that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Avocado Spread:
- 1 large avocado, mashed
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Assembly:
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Optional garnish: extra chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they become blackened and are fully cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Make the Avocado Spread: In a separate bowl, mash the large avocado until smooth. Mix in the juice of half a lime, chopped fresh cilantro, and season with salt and pepper to taste, blending all flavors well.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a small spoonful of the mashed avocado mixture on each cucumber slice. Then, top each with a freshly cooked blackened shrimp.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish the bites with extra chopped cilantro or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve the bites immediately for the best freshness.
Notes
- Perfect as a light appetizer or party snack.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a touch of hot sauce or serve with a creamy dipping sauce on the side.
- Use fresh, firm cucumbers to hold the toppings well and provide a crisp texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
