Description
These Cajun Shrimp Appetizers with Avocado and Cucumber are a fresh and flavorful bite-sized treat perfect for entertaining. Succulent shrimp seasoned with a zesty blend of spices and garlic are sautéed to perfection, then paired with a creamy lime-infused avocado spread on crisp cucumber slices. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, these appetizers are light, vibrant, and easy to prepare, ideal for summer parties or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
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 20–22 rings
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels in a large mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir well to evenly coat the shrimp with the seasoning.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large heavy pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. When the oil is hot, place the shrimp in a single layer in the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Make Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth. Add salt and 1 tablespoon lime juice, mixing well to create a creamy avocado spread.
- Assemble the Appetizers: Spread the avocado mixture evenly over each cucumber slice (about 20-22 slices). Top each with a cooked shrimp. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled bites and garnish with additional chopped cilantro.
- Serve or Store: If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if frozen for best flavor and texture.
- You can adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- These appetizers are best served fresh but can be chilled for a few hours in advance.
- Use ripe but firm avocados for the best spread consistency.
- English cucumbers are preferred for their mild flavor and thin skin, but regular cucumbers can be used after peeling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cajun shrimp appetizers, avocado cucumber bites, spicy shrimp appetizer, easy party snacks, low carb appetizers
