In the realm of appetizers, the quest for something both light and satisfying can often feel like a daunting task. Yet, the fusion of fresh, vibrant flavors with the hearty substance of seafood offers a solution that is not only tantalizing to the taste buds but also wonderfully simple to prepare. Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that embodies this balance perfectly: Shrimp and Cucumber Bites with Avocado Sauce.

This dish stands out for its combination of textures and flavors, from the crisp, refreshing bite of cucumber to the rich, creamy smoothness of avocado, all complemented by the savory goodness of perfectly seasoned shrimp. It’s an ensemble that promises to delight your guests or add a touch of gourmet to your snack time. Let’s dive into the details.

Ingredients:

Before we begin, let’s ensure we have all the necessary ingredients. This recipe serves four, making it ideal for a small gathering or a family appetizer.

• For the Shrimp and Assembly:
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon creole seasoning
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup remoulade sauce (optional)
• For the Avocado Sauce:
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced or chopped
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro and/or parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and cayenne to taste

Directions:

1. Preparing the Shrimp: First, toss the shrimp with oil and creole seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until slightly blackened, about 2-3 minutes per side. The key here is to achieve a nice sear without overcooking, to retain the shrimp’s juicy texture.

2. Crafting the Avocado Sauce: While the shrimp cook, blend the mashed avocado, green onion, cilantro/parsley, lemon juice, salt, and a dash of cayenne in a bowl. This sauce should be smooth with a bit of chunkiness for texture, bursting with the freshness of herbs and the zing of lemon.

3. Assembling the Bites: The final step is to layer each component. Start with a slice of cucumber, add a dollop of the avocado sauce, then top with a shrimp. For those who enjoy a little extra zing, a drizzle of remoulade sauce can add a beautiful complexity to the bite.

Serving Suggestions:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes

With a total calorie count of approximately 215 kcal per serving, these shrimp and cucumber bites are not just delicious but also lean towards the healthier side of appetizers. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next dinner party or simply indulge in a gourmet snack at home, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

In summary, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create something truly remarkable. The shrimp and cucumber bites with avocado sauce offer a refreshing yet satisfying option that is sure to elevate your appetizer game. So why wait? Dive into the delightful flavors and textures of this exquisite dish and enjoy the culinary journey it brings.

Shrimp and Cucumber Bites with Avocado Sauce

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon creole seasoning
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup remoulade sauce (optional)
For the Avocado Sauce:
1 avocado, mashed
1 green onion, thinly sliced or chopped
2 tablespoons cilantro and/or parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and cayenne to taste

Directions:

Toss the shrimp with oil and creole seasoning. Cook in a preheated pan over medium-high heat until slightly blackened, about 2-3 minutes per side.
For the avocado sauce, combine avocado, green onion, cilantro/parsley, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne. Mix well.
Assemble the bites by layering cucumber slices, a dollop of avocado sauce, a shrimp, and a drizzle of remoulade sauce if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 16 minutes