Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

Quick Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe for Parties

Crisp summer gatherings call for delightful blackened shrimp avocado cucumber bites that spark instant conversation.

Small plates like these pack massive flavor without complicated preparation.

Delicate cucumber rounds serve as perfect edible platforms for zesty seasoned seafood.

Spicy shrimp dance atop creamy avocado spread, creating miniature taste explosions in every single bite.

Fresh herbs add unexpected brightness to this elegant appetizer.

Each morsel promises a refreshing blend of textures and bold southwestern-inspired seasonings.

Wow your guests with these simple yet impressive little nibbles that disappear faster than you can plate them.

Why Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Are a Flavor Burst

  • Spice Up Your Appetizer: Dive into a flavor explosion with bold blackened shrimp that delivers a zesty kick perfect for those who love a little heat.
  • Quick and Elegant Party Pleaser: Create restaurant-quality bites in minutes, making it an impressive yet simple dish for gatherings, game nights, or unexpected guests.
  • Healthy Bite-Sized Delight: Pack nutrition into each small bite with protein-rich shrimp, creamy avocado, and refreshing cucumber, offering a balanced and guilt-free snack that looks stunning on any plate.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels, swapping ingredients, or changing garnishes to match your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

Protein Base:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the main protein and delivers a spicy blackened flavor.
Vegetables and Fruits:
  • Avocado: Creamy ingredient that provides a smooth texture and rich taste.
  • Cucumber: Crisp vegetable that offers a refreshing base for the bites.
Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:
  • Creole Seasoning, Salt, Cayenne Pepper: Spice blend that adds bold and zesty flavors to the shrimp.
  • Olive Oil: Cooking fat used to sear and cook the shrimp evenly.
  • Remoulade Sauce: Tangy condiment that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garnish Ingredients:
  • Cilantro, Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that add color, aroma, and a light, fresh finish to the dish.

How to Prepare Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

Step 1: Season Shrimp

Rinse shrimp under cold water and gently pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle creole seasoning, salt, and cayenne pepper over the shrimp, ensuring each piece gets an even coating of spices.

Step 2: Heat Cooking Surface

Place a large skillet on the stove and warm it over medium-high heat. Add oil and wait until it starts to shimmer with a glossy appearance.

Step 3: Sear Shrimp

Carefully place seasoned shrimp into the hot skillet, creating a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn vibrant pink and look completely opaque.

Step 4: Prepare Vegetable Base

While shrimp cook, prepare cucumber and avocado.

Ingredients:
  • Cucumber
  • Avocado

Slice cucumber into round or rectangular pieces. Cut avocado into thin, elegant strips after removing the pit.

Step 5: Build Elegant Bites

Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter. Layer a slice of creamy avocado on top of each cucumber piece, then crown with a perfectly cooked blackened shrimp.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

Drizzle each bite with tangy remoulade sauce. Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro, parsley, and thinly sliced green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Present these mouthwatering appetizers right away. Enjoy the delightful combination of spicy shrimp, smooth avocado, and crisp cucumber.

Pro Tips for Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

  • Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect blackened exterior and prevent steaming.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the best searing and authentic blackened flavor, creating a crispy caramelized crust.
  • Keep shrimp in a single layer while cooking to ensure even browning and prevent overcrowding that reduces temperature.
  • Select firm, ripe avocados for easier slicing and a creamy texture that complements the spicy shrimp.
  • Chill cucumber slices beforehand for an extra refreshing contrast against the warm, spicy blackened shrimp.

Variations of Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

  • Spicy Citrus Fusion: Replace creole seasoning with a zesty lime and chili powder blend for a tangy, hot kick.
  • Mediterranean Style: Swap remoulade sauce with tzatziki, use dill instead of cilantro, and sprinkle feta cheese crumbles on top.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute cucumber with crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, carb-reduced version that maintains the original flavor profile.
  • Asian-Inspired Bite: Use wasabi mayo instead of remoulade, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and garnish with microgreens for an elegant touch.

Best Pairings for Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

  • Elevate Crisp Refreshment: Pair a chilled Sauvignon Blanc with its zesty citrus notes to complement the spicy blackened shrimp and cut through the creamy avocado.
  • Craft Beer Delight: Select a light wheat beer or pale ale with subtle hoppy undertones that balance the dish's heat while enhancing its seafood freshness.
  • Sparkling Citrus Mocktail: Mix fresh lime juice, sparkling water, and a hint of mint to create a vibrant non-alcoholic beverage that mirrors the recipe's bright, bold flavors.
  • Tropical Cocktail Twist: Blend a classic mojito with white rum, which echoes the Caribbean-inspired spice profile of the blackened shrimp and adds a refreshing tropical kick.

Storage Advice for Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites

  • Store leftover shrimp bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
  • Do not freeze these bites, as cucumber and avocado will become mushy and lose their crisp texture when thawed.
  • Gently warm shrimp in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking. Alternatively, use a microwave on low power for 30 seconds, checking to prevent rubbery shrimp.
  • For best flavor and texture, consume leftovers within 24 hours. Remake fresh bites if possible, as the cucumber and avocado will start to lose their crispness quickly.

Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites FAQs

  • What is blackening in cooking?

Blackening is a cooking technique where meat or seafood is coated with spices and seared in a very hot skillet, creating a dark, flavorful crust without burning the food.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure proper searing and prevent excess moisture.

  • How spicy are these bites?

The spice level depends on the amount of cayenne pepper and creole seasoning used. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the spices to suit your taste preference.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these bites?

No, just a large skillet, paper towels, and basic kitchen tools like a knife and cutting board are sufficient to prepare these shrimp bites.

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Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe


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4.5 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Zesty blackened shrimp avocado cucumber bites bring coastal flavors to your appetizer spread with bold Caribbean-inspired seasoning. Cool cucumber slices provide crisp contrast while creamy avocado smooths spicy shrimp, creating perfect party-ready finger food you’ll devour in moments.


Ingredients

Scale

Seafood:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

Produce:

  • 1 cucumber
  • 1 avocado
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro and/or parsley
  • 1 green onion

Seasonings and Sauces:

  • 1 tablespoon creole seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 dash cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup remoulade sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

  1. Cleanse the shrimp thoroughly under cold running water, then meticulously dry using clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Liberally coat the shrimp with creole seasoning, ensuring each piece receives an even, robust layer of spices that will create a dynamic flavor profile.
  3. Heat a large skillet to medium-high temperature (approximately 375°F), allowing the oil to reach a shimmering, near-smoking point which indicates optimal cooking conditions.
  4. Carefully place seasoned shrimp into the hot skillet, creating a single layer without overcrowding to guarantee proper caramelization and crisp exterior.
  5. Sear shrimp for precisely 2-3 minutes per side, watching for a vibrant pink color and opaque texture that signals perfect doneness.
  6. While shrimp cook, transform the avocado by removing the pit and slicing into elegant, thin strips that will provide a creamy foundation for each bite.
  7. Slice cucumber into uniform rounds or elongated strips, creating a crisp, refreshing base for the appetizer construction.
  8. Artfully arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter, layering each with a delicate avocado strip as the second component.
  9. Crown each cucumber-avocado layer with a perfectly blackened shrimp, creating a visually appealing and flavor-packed miniature bite.
  10. Drizzle each assembled bite with remoulade sauce, adding a tangy dimension to the appetizer.
  11. Garnish with finely chopped cilantro, parsley, and thinly sliced green onions to introduce fresh herbal notes and visual complexity.
  12. Serve immediately to preserve the shrimp’s optimal temperature and textural integrity, presenting a vibrant and sophisticated appetizer.

Notes

  • Customize spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper for heat-sensitive palates or those wanting extra kick.
  • Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure perfect crispy blackened exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
  • Use fresh, firm cucumbers for maximum crunch and slice uniformly to create elegant, consistent appetizer presentation.
  • Substitute remoulade with lighter options like Greek yogurt sauce or lime-cilantro dressing for lower-calorie alternative.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 195 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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