Description
These Shrimp Appetizers with Avocado and Cucumber are a fresh, flavorful bite-sized snack perfect for parties or light meals. Cajun-spiced shrimp are sautéed to perfection and served atop creamy lime-infused avocado spread and crisp cucumber slices, making a delicious and healthy appetizer that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 Tbsp cilantro (finely chopped, plus more to garnish)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
Avocado Spread and Assembly
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp lime juice (plus more to squeeze over finished appetizers)
- 1 English cucumber (sliced into 22 rings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cajun Shrimp: Place peeled and deveined shrimp in a large mixing bowl and pat dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, chopped cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, black pepper, and half the olive oil (1 Tbsp). Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the shrimp with the seasoning.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large heavy skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side or until they turn opaque and are cooked through, ensuring they have a slight sear from the Cajun spices.
- Make the Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado together with salt and lime juice until smooth and creamy. This mixture will provide a tangy, rich base for the appetizers.
- Assemble the Appetizers: Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture onto each cucumber slice. Top each with one cooked shrimp. Squeeze additional fresh lime juice over the assembled bites for brightness and garnish with additional finely chopped cilantro.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. If preparing in advance, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before seasoning to get a better sear.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference for spiciness.
- Use ripe but firm avocado to make a smooth spread that holds well on cucumber slices.
- These appetizers can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, but assemble cucumber and avocado just before serving if possible to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
