Ingredients

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)

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

Step 1: Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl and pat dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir well to combine the seasoning evenly with the shrimp.

Step 2: Heat a large heavy pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. When the oil is hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are cooked through and opaque.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon lime juice until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the cucumber slices to create a small base on each slice.

Step 5: Place one cooked shrimp on top of each avocado-covered cucumber slice. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled bites and garnish with extra chopped cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, sprinkle a little toasted sesame seeds on top of the shrimp before serving.

Swap out cayenne pepper for smoked paprika if you prefer a milder, smoky flavor.

Use grape tomatoes instead of cucumber slices for a sweeter alternative base.

Make it spicy by adding a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread.

Storage

If not serving immediately, cover the assembled appetizers and refrigerate for up to 4 hours to keep them fresh. Avoid storing much longer to prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy and the avocado from browning. Serve chilled or at room temperature. The shrimp can also be cooked ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?

Yes, you can cook the shrimp and make the avocado spread a few hours ahead. Assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumber crisp and avocado fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have an English cucumber?

You can use regular cucumbers, but peel them to reduce bitterness and slice them thinner. Alternatively, crunchy vegetables like zucchini or bell pepper slices work well as a base.