Name: Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Creole
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; 1 tablespoon creole seasoning; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 cup remoulade sauce (optional); 1 avocado, mashed; 1 green onion, thinly sliced or chopped; 2 tablespoons cilantro and/or parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and cayenne pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 51 reviews

If you’re craving a snack that bursts with bold flavors, fresh textures, and vibrant colors, you’re going to adore this Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe. Imagine perfectly seasoned, slightly charred shrimp layered atop crisp cucumber slices, all crowned with a creamy avocado sauce that sings with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs. Each bite delivers a delightful harmony of spicy, cool, and savory that’s just as impressive for a casual gathering as it is for a fancy appetizer. This recipe is a true celebration of simplicity and flavor working hand in hand, making it an irresistible choice when you want to wow your taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black cast iron pan full of cooked shrimp arranged in a loose circular pattern, each shrimp showing a golden-brown color with light char marks and a slightly glossy texture from the cooking oil. The shrimp tails have a reddish tint, and the shrimp bodies are plump and curled, displaying a mix of light orange and white shades with some black pepper specks and seasoning visible on the surface. The pan has a slightly oily sheen with some browned bits stuck to the bottom. The background beneath the pan is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe lies in its simplicity and the fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a crucial part—whether it’s the juicy cucumber providing a refreshing crunch, or the creamy avocado sauce adding that luscious texture, every item on the list enhances your final dish.

1 tablespoon oil: Helps the shrimp cook evenly and develop that perfect blackened crust.
1 tablespoon creole seasoning: Brings smoky, spicy depth to the shrimp, giving each bite an exciting kick.
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show, delivering tender, flavorful protein.
1 cucumber, sliced: Adds a crisp, refreshing base that balances out the bold shrimp.
1/4 cup remoulade sauce (optional): A tangy, flavor-packed drizzle that takes these bites next-level.
1 avocado, mashed: Creates the creamy avocado sauce with a silky smooth texture.
1 green onion, thinly sliced or chopped: Infuses the avocado sauce with a mild, oniony brightness.
2 tablespoons cilantro and/or parsley, chopped: Adds fresh, herbaceous notes to brighten the flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lends acidity that lifts and balances the creamy avocado.
Salt and cayenne to taste: Essential seasonings to perfect the avocado sauce’s flavor profile with a little heat.

How to Make Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

First, toss your shrimp with oil and the creole seasoning until each piece is well coated. This simple step is key to building those alluring blackened flavors. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat—this ensures you get that beautiful char quickly without overcooking. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they develop a slightly blackened crust and turn a lovely opaque pink. The sizzling sound as they hit the pan is enough to get your mouth watering already!

Step 2: Make the Avocado Sauce

While the shrimp is cooking, whip up the avocado sauce. Mash the avocado until smooth, then fold in the chopped green onion, cilantro or parsley, and lemon juice. Season this vibrant mixture with salt and just a pinch of cayenne for a gentle heat that wakes up the creaminess. This sauce will be the luscious, cooling counterpart to the spiced shrimp—incredibly easy but packed with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Bites

Slice your cucumber into thick, crisp rounds—the perfect little platforms for the toppings. Spread a generous dollop of the avocado sauce on each cucumber slice, then top with one of the blackened shrimp. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a small spoonful of remoulade sauce atop each bite for a tangy, flavorful twist. Each layer adds dimension and flavor complexity, resulting in a bite-sized delight that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your palate.

How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with small appetizers, each made of three main layers. The bottom layer is a thick, fresh green cucumber slice, smooth and round. On top of each cucumber slice is a dollop of light green guacamole, creamy and slightly chunky in texture. The top layer is a single cooked shrimp with a golden-orange color, slightly charred with visible seasoning, curled delicately over the guacamole. Each shrimp is garnished with small bits of chopped green herbs. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, with some fresh cilantro leaves scattered around and a halved avocado placed in the blurred background. A woman's hand is poised nearby, about to pick one of the appetizers, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish off your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe with fresh garnishes that amplify both flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. For an extra pop, consider a light dusting of smoked paprika or an additional dash of cayenne pepper. These little touches awaken the senses and make each bite feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

These bites are fantastic on their own as a light appetizer, but pairing them with refreshing side dishes can turn your meal into a fiesta of flavors. Think a crisp mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or a chilled quinoa salad with tomatoes and herbs. If you want a heartier meal, serve alongside coconut rice or a simple roasted vegetable medley to balance the spices and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this recipe. Arrange your Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe on a large platter lined with leafy greens or colorful edible flowers to add contrast and charm. For a party, try skewering the bites onto toothpicks or mini skewers for easy grabbing. Alternatively, serve these in shot glasses with layered avocado sauce, shrimp, and cucumber for a fun and modern twist sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of the Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe, store the shrimp and avocado sauce separately for the best texture and flavor preservation. Place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Keep the avocado sauce in a small container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to minimize browning.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, especially because the cucumber slices will become watery and mushy upon thawing, and the creamy avocado sauce will likely separate. For the best experience, enjoy this dish fresh or within a couple of days if refrigerated.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat for just a minute or two until warmed through—avoid the microwave to keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Then, assemble with fresh cucumber slices and the chilled avocado sauce as originally directed for that fresh bite sensation.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seasoning instead of creole?

Absolutely! While creole seasoning gives a distinct smoky and spicy flavor, you can experiment with Cajun, blackened spice blends, or even a simple mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne to customize the heat and smokiness to your liking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, but always double-check store-bought seasonings and remoulade sauce ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

For a plant-based twist, substitute shrimp with grilled or sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu bites. Keep the avocado sauce and cucumber rounds, and you’ll still enjoy a fresh, tasty appetizer packed with texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?

Simply remove the shell, leaving the tails on or off as you prefer, and use a small paring knife or shrimp deveiner tool to cut along the back and remove the dark vein. Rinse under cold water if needed and pat dry before seasoning.

Can I prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the avocado sauce a few hours in advance, but to keep it bright and green, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface and refrigerate. Give it a quick stir before assembling to refresh the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy bold flavors and fresh ingredients in a simple, quick, and elegant package. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or your next party appetizer, these bites are guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Dive in and savor every colorful, spicy, creamy morsel—you’ll be reaching for another one before you know it!

Blackened Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Bites Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need