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Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites offer a bold, smoky, and spicy shrimp flavor paired with the crisp, refreshing crunch of cucumber rounds. This healthy, light, and easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a tasty snack, delivering vibrant colors and layers of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs blend)
  • 2 large firm seedless cucumbers, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for garnish

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese (for extra creaminess and texture variety)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat the shrimp dry thoroughly. Toss them in the blackened seasoning, making sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spice blend.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and develop a slightly charred blackened crust.
  3. Slice the Cucumbers: While shrimp cooks, slice cucumbers into 1/2 inch thick rounds to serve as the crisp, refreshing base for the bites.
  4. Assemble the Bites: Place one cooked shrimp on each cucumber slice. Drizzle with fresh lime juice and add optional garnishes such as fresh herbs or a creamy topping like sour cream, avocado, or aioli.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the bites on a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm shrimp and crunchy cucumbers.

Notes

  • Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to help spices adhere and promote a crisp crust.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even searing.
  • Use seedless cucumbers to avoid sogginess and maintain crunch.
  • Adjust spice levels in the blackened seasoning by varying the cayenne pepper according to your taste.
  • Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened shrimp, cucumber bites, appetizer, gluten free, healthy snack, party food, seafood appetizer