Description
These Zesty Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are a refreshing and flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Featuring perfectly seasoned, blackened shrimp atop crisp cucumber slices, topped with creamy mashed avocado and fresh herbs, these bites offer a delightful combination of textures and bold, zesty flavors that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Oil (olive oil or avocado oil preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Creole Seasoning (Cajun seasoning can be used as a substitute)
- 1 pound Shrimp (medium, 20-25 count, peeled and deveined)
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 medium Cucumber (English cucumber recommended for fewer seeds and extra crunch)
- 1 medium Avocado (mashed for creamy topping)
- 2 tablespoons Green Onion and Fresh Herbs (cilantro or parsley recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (lime juice can be substituted)
- To taste Salt and Cayenne Pepper (adjust for desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon Remoulade Sauce (or your favorite dipping sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the peeled and deveined shrimp. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of creole seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slightly blackened crust. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Slice the Cucumber: Wash the cucumber and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds to create the base for the bites. Pat dry the slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare the Avocado Topping: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bites: Spread a small dollop of the mashed avocado onto each cucumber slice. Place one cooked blackened shrimp on top of the avocado layer.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Sauce: Garnish each bite with chopped green onions and fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Finish by drizzling or adding a small spoonful of remoulade sauce on top or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Serve: Arrange the bites on a serving platter and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for the best flavor.
- If creole seasoning is not available, Cajun seasoning is an excellent substitute.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper depending on your heat preference.
- English cucumbers have fewer seeds and provide a crispier base but regular cucumbers work well too.
- For a dairy-free and gluten-free dish, ensure your remoulade sauce meets those criteria or omit it.
- Serve immediately after assembly to maintain cucumber crispness and avocado freshness.
