Description
These Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are a flavorful and fresh appetizer featuring spicy blackened shrimp atop creamy avocado mash served on crisp cucumber slices. Perfect as a light snack or party appetizer, they combine smoky, tangy, and creamy elements for a delicious low-carb treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 large cucumber (sliced into ¼-inch rounds)
- 1 ripe avocado (mashed)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Extra lime wedges for serving
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 if using, salt, and black pepper until all shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are blackened and cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat once done.
- Prepare the avocado mixture: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocado with lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the bites: Spread a small dollop of the avocado mixture on each cucumber slice. Top each slice with one cooked blackened shrimp.
- Serve: Arrange the bites on a serving platter and provide extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over just before eating. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- These bites make great appetizers or a light, refreshing snack.
- You can prepare the avocado mash in advance and store it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto its surface to prevent browning.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity or omit it to control the spice level according to your preference.
