Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

Try the tasty mix of blackened creole seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado, and fresh cucumber slices. This recipe is perfect for game day, sports events, or any time you want to wow your guests. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it great for sudden gatherings or a quick meal.

Key Takeaways

Blackened shrimp with creole seasoning
Creamy avocado spread on crisp cucumber slices
Quick and easy 20-minute recipe
Serves 8 as an appetizer
Nutritious and low-calorie (155 calories per serving)

Introduction to Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

Explore the world of Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites. This dish combines bold flavors with cool, creamy textures. It’s great for any event, from casual to formal.

What Makes These Bites Special

The secret is the perfect mix of flavors and textures. The blackened shrimp offers a unique taste. Meanwhile, the creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber add a delightful contrast. Each bite is a journey of flavors.

Health Benefits Overview

These bites are not just tasty; they’re also healthy. Shrimp is full of protein, and avocado has healthy fats and fiber. Cucumber adds freshness without extra calories. It’s a nutritious choice for anyone watching their diet.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These bites are perfect for any event. They’re great for virtual parties, barbecues, or formal dinners. They impress everyone and leave them wanting more.

“These Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are a flavor explosion in every bite. The combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy elements is simply divine.” – Chef Samantha Delicious

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

To make the tasty Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites, you need some fresh ingredients. The main parts are:

1 lb of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1 English cucumber, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons of freshly chopped green onion
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
Salt and cayenne pepper to taste

For the optional remoulade sauce, you’ll need:

1/2 cup of mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of Creole mustard
2 tablespoons of ketchup
1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons of capers, drained
2 tablespoons of finely chopped green onion
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon of paprika

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious appetizer. It’s sure to wow your guests.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the tasty Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites, you’ll need some key tools. A heavy-bottomed pan or skillet is crucial for blackening the shrimp right. This pan type ensures the shrimp gets a perfect crust.

You’ll also need mixing bowls for the recipe’s parts, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for the cucumbers and avocados. For the remoulade sauce, a food processor makes blending the ingredients smooth and creamy.

Recommended Pans and Utensils

Heavy-bottomed pan or skillet
Mixing bowls
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Optional Tools for Presentation

To make your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites look great, consider some extra tools. A serving platter or tray is perfect for arranging the appetizers nicely. For the avocado spread, a piping bag or small spoons help you dollop it neatly on the cucumber slices.

Tool	Purpose
Serving platter or tray	Attractive presentation
Piping bag or small spoons	Precise application of avocado spread
Tongs	Handling and arranging the shrimp

Having the right tools and equipment is key to enjoying Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites. With the right setup, you’ll easily make these tasty and beautiful appetizers.

Preparing the Blackened Shrimp

To make the perfect blackened shrimp, start by tossing the shrimp in creole seasoning. This mix of spices, like paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne, gives a bold flavor. It makes the shrimp taste amazing.

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Add a light coating of oil. Then, add the shrimp to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Let them sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. This way, they get a beautiful blackened crust without being overcooked.

Toss the shrimp in the creole seasoning until they are fully coated.
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a light drizzle of oil.
Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the hot pan, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice blackened crust.
Remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside to cool slightly before assembling the bites.

The secret to perfect blackened shrimp is a hot, dry pan. This lets the spices caramelize and create a tasty crust. By following these steps, you’ll get juicy, flavorful shrimp. They’ll be the highlight of your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites.

Making the Perfect Avocado Spread

To make your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites better, start with a ripe avocado. Mash it with a fork or potato masher until it’s smooth. Add chopped green onions, fresh cilantro or parsley, a squeeze of lime juice, salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper. This makes a guacamole-like alternative that’s perfect with the blackened shrimp.

Tips for Selecting Ripe Avocados

Choosing the right avocados is key for a creamy spread. Look for ones that are slightly soft but still firm. They should have a deep green skin without blemishes. Use avocados that are ripe for the best taste and texture.

Flavor Enhancement Options

Add a touch of lime juice for a zesty, guacamole-inspired flavor profile.
Mix in finely minced garlic or shallots for an extra savory note.
Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy, tangy twist.
Sprinkle in a blend of dried spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika.

For a quick fix, use store-bought guacamole as your base. Just add a squeeze of lime juice and any other seasonings you like. This will enhance the flavors of the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites.

“The key to a perfect avocado spread is finding that sweet spot of ripeness. Mash it up with a few simple ingredients, and you’ve got the ultimate creamy base for these delightful bites.”

Cucumber Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right cucumber is key for the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites. The English cucumber is perfect because it’s crisp and has fewer seeds. Slice it into 20-22 rounds, making sure each is the same thickness. This makes the dish look great and easy to eat.

You can also use toasted baguette slices for a crunchier bite. This gives the dish a different taste. No matter what you choose, keep the slices the same thickness for a neat look.

Ingredient	Quantity	Carbs (Net)
English Cucumber	1 average	6g
Guacamole	1/4 cup	3g
Blackened Shrimp	1 pound	3g
Total	–	12g

This recipe makes 16 appetizer servings, each with less than 1 net carb. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 2 minutes to cook, for a total of 12 minutes.

“The key to a visually stunning and delectable Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites is the perfect slicing of the English cucumber.”

Creating the Remoulade Sauce

Make your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites even better with a homemade remoulade sauce. This spicy mayo sauce brings a creamy, tangy flavor that’s just right.

To create the remoulade, mix mayonnaise, Creole mustard, ketchup, horseradish, garlic, lemon juice, capers, green onion, cayenne pepper, and paprika in a food processor. Blend until it’s smooth. You can adjust the spiciness to your liking, making the homemade remoulade just right for you.

Sauce Variations

Don’t be afraid to try new things with your remoulade sauce. Swap out ingredients or add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. For a spicier sauce, add more horseradish or a bit of hot sauce.

Storage Tips

Keep the remoulade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Make it ahead of time to let the flavors mix well.
Stir it well before serving to mix all the ingredients.

With this spicy mayo sauce, your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites will be a hit. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors in every bite.

“The remoulade sauce really takes these bites to the next level. It’s the perfect complement to the blackened shrimp and creamy avocado.” – Victoria Brenae (16.3K likes on shrimp boats post)

Assembly Instructions and Presentation Tips

Making the perfect layered appetizers with blackened shrimp, avocado, and cucumber is an art. Start by placing crisp cucumber slices on a platter. Then, add a dollop of creamy avocado spread on each slice. Finally, place a succulent blackened shrimp on top of the avocado.

To add color and flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the bites. Squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of taste. This lets the citrus mix with the other flavors.

Arrange the appetizers in a circle on the platter. This makes the dish look good and easy to grab. It also makes your guests happy and eager to try more.

The secret to a stunning presentation is in how you layer and garnish. With these tips, your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites will wow your guests. They’ll want more of this delicious dish.

“The secret to a great presentation is in the layering and garnishing – it’s the small details that make all the difference.” – Chef Julia Childs

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites recipe is very flexible. You can make it fit your diet and taste preferences.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is already keto-friendly and low-carb, with only 1 net carb per serving. For a more low-carb option, use lettuce cups instead of cucumber slices.

You can also swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu. This keeps the dish tasty and meets different dietary needs.

Spice Level Adjustments

For a milder taste, cut the paprika and cayenne pepper in half. This makes the dish less spicy but still flavorful. You can also tweak the spice alternatives to your liking, adding more or less Creole seasoning.

Ingredient	Original Amount	Milder Variation
Paprika	1 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper	1/4 teaspoon	1/8 teaspoon
Creole Seasoning	1 tablespoon	Adjust to taste

These simple changes let you enjoy the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites your way. You can adjust it to fit your diet and spice level.

Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines

Preparing these tasty Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites doesn’t have to be stressful. With some prep-ahead tips, you can start early and keep things fresh for serving.

You can make the parts of this recipe up to 4 hours ahead. Keep the assembled bites in the fridge until it’s time to serve. For longer storage, separate the parts: cooked shrimp (up to 3 days), avocado spread (1 day), sliced cucumbers (2 days), and remoulade sauce (1 week). This way, you can put the bites together just before your guests arrive, ensuring they’re perfect.

Prepare the shrimp, avocado spread, and remoulade sauce up to 4 hours in advance.
Store each component separately in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
Assemble the bites right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

By following these easy prep-ahead tips and refrigeration tips, you can make these appetizers ahead of time. This way, you can enjoy the taste and freshness without any hassle. Start early and enjoy the delicious results when you’re ready to entertain!

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

These Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are both tasty and healthy. Each bite has just 49 calories. They’re great for those watching their diet or looking for a light snack.

Shrimp is the main protein in these bites, offering 4 grams of protein per serving. It’s also low in carbs, ideal for keto or low-carb diets.

Avocado adds healthy fats to the mix. These fats are good for your heart and overall health. The mix of protein and fats in these bites can help you feel full longer, which is good for managing weight.

Nutritional Information (Per Bite)	Value
Calories	49
Carbohydrates	1g
Protein	4g
Fat	2g
Cholesterol	51mg
Sodium	240mg

These bites are not just tasty but also packed with nutrients. They’re a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the cucumber and avocado. They fit into many diets, including gluten-free, keto, and paleo. They’re a healthy and versatile snack choice.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

These Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are great as an appetizer or hors d’oeuvre. They’re perfect for any event, whether it’s a virtual cocktail party or a small gathering. These bite-sized treats will surely wow your guests.

For the best pairing, serve these shrimp bites with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing beer. The shrimp and avocado spread’s bright, zesty flavors will match the clean, cool notes of these drinks. You can also offer them with other finger foods like bruschetta, cheese platters, or crackers.

These shrimp bites are also great as a starter or side dish for a bigger meal. Pair them with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and balanced dinner. They pair well with seafood dishes like grilled salmon or seared scallops too.

At a game day gathering or a casual get-together, these cocktail pairings and complementary dishes will be a hit. Their portability and tasty flavors make them ideal for any snack spread or appetizer table.

“The combination of the blackened shrimp, creamy avocado, and refreshing cucumber is simply irresistible. These bites are a crowd-pleasing way to kick off any meal or event.”

No matter the occasion, these Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites will impress everyone. Their bold flavors, vibrant look, and versatility make them a great choice for any menu or event.

Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites are a tasty, easy-to-make appetizer. They are perfect for any event. This recipe mixes the bold taste of blackened shrimp with creamy avocado and fresh cucumber.

It’s a great choice for parties, quick snacks, or healthy treats. You can adjust it to fit different tastes and events. It’s a reliable pick for any occasion.

This recipe is simple and flexible. It requires little prep time and uses common ingredients. It’s a healthy and tasty option for everyone.

These bites are perfect for any gathering. They add color, flavor, and fun to any event. They’re sure to become a favorite at your next family gathering.

FAQ

What makes these Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites unique?

These bites mix bold blackened creole-seasoned shrimp with cool cucumber and creamy avocado. They offer a perfect mix of textures and tastes.

What are the health benefits of this appetizer?

This dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients. It has lean shrimp, healthy avocado fats, and vitamins from cucumber and other ingredients.

Can this recipe be served for different occasions?

Yes, these bites are great for many events. They’re perfect for virtual parties or formal dinners, pleasing everyone.

What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

You’ll need shrimp, cucumber, avocado, and creole seasoning. Also, oil, green onion, cilantro/parsley, lemon juice, and salt are key. Remoulade sauce includes mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and spices.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this recipe?

You need a heavy pan for blackening shrimp, bowls, a cutting board, and knife. A food processor and tongs are optional. For serving, a platter and small spoons or a piping bag are helpful.

How do you properly cook the blackened shrimp?

Toss shrimp in oil and seasoning, then cook in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side. Cook in batches for a good sear and juicy shrimp.

How do you prepare the perfect avocado spread?

Mash avocado with green onion, cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne. Use store-bought guacamole for a quicker option. Choose ripe avocados for the best taste.

How should the cucumber be prepared?

Use English cucumber for its crispness. Slice it into rounds for even presentation. Toasted baguette slices can be a good substitute.

How do you make the creamy remoulade sauce?

Blend mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, horseradish, garlic, lemon juice, capers, green onion, cayenne, and paprika until smooth. Adjust the spiciness to your liking.

How do you assemble and present the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites?

Layer cucumber slices with avocado spread, then add blackened shrimp. Drizzle with remoulade sauce. Garnish with parsley or cilantro and lime juice. Arrange on a platter for a nice look.

What are some variations and substitutions for this recipe?

For a milder taste, reduce paprika and cayenne. Use grilled chicken or tofu for different proteins. Try lettuce cups for a low-carb version. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

How far in advance can this dish be prepared?

Prepare up to 4 hours in advance. Store in the fridge. For longer storage, keep parts separate. Assemble just before serving for freshness.

What are the nutrition facts and health benefits of this appetizer?

Each bite has 49 calories, 1g carbs, 4g protein, and 2g fat. It’s rich in healthy fats and lean protein. It’s low in carbs and good for many diets, offering vitamins and minerals.

What are the best pairings and serving suggestions for this appetizer?

Pair with crisp white wines or light beers. Serve with bruschetta or cheese platters. For a meal, add a light salad or soup. It’s versatile and pleases many.