Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites Recipe

If you love light, bold appetizers with a bit of New Orleans flair, you’re in for a treat—these Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites are a flavor-packed party on a plate! Cool, crunchy cucumber slices are topped with creamy avocado mash, juicy blackened shrimp, and a drizzle of zesty remoulade. Each bite is refreshing, spicy, and simply irresistible—perfect for entertaining or as a fun weeknight starter.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites might look straightforward, but each element brings something magical. The shrimp bring juicy protein, while avocado and remoulade add creamy, tangy notes—all perched on fresh cucumber for the ultimate crunch and burst of color!

• Shrimp: Juicy, sweet, and the true star—use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for best results.
• Creole Seasoning: Adds bold, aromatic heat and that signature blackened flavor to the shrimp.
• Oil: For searing—any high heat-friendly oil like avocado or canola ensures golden, flavorful shrimp.
• Cucumber: Sliced into thick rounds, it provides a cool, snappy base that balances the spicy topping.
• Avocado: Mashed for a rich, creamy layer with lush color and subtle flavor.
• Green Onion: Sliced or chopped for a gentle bite and extra freshness in the avocado mash and sauce.
• Cilantro/Parsley: Chopped fresh herbs for the avocado mash; parsley is also a vibrant optional garnish.
• Lemon Juice: Zesty acidity that brightens the avocado mash and the remoulade sauce.
• Salt & Cayenne: For seasoning and a little extra kick in the avocado layer—adjust to your taste buds!
• Remoulade Sauce: (Optional but highly recommended!) A creamy, Louisiana-style sauce with mayo, creole mustard, ketchup, horseradish, and more—totally customizable and packed with tangy flavor.
• Mayonnaise, Creole Mustard, Ketchup, Horseradish, Garlic, Capers, Cayenne, Paprika: These combine for your homemade remoulade sauce; once you try it, you’ll want to drizzle it everywhere.

Variations

The beauty of Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites is how easily you can tweak them! You can make the dish your own based on what you have, dietary needs, or the crowd you’re serving—there’s something for everyone here.

• Use Guacamole Instead of Avocado Mash: Swap in your favorite prepared guac for an easy and equally delicious creamy layer.
• Try a Different Protein: Swap shrimp for blackened chicken, crab, or even grilled tofu for a fun twist.
• Spice Up the Sauce: Add extra hot sauce or smoked paprika to the remoulade if you like things fiery.
• Add Extra Crunch: Sprinkle a few pomegranate seeds or diced radish on top for color and texture pop.
• Simplify the Sauce: Use store-bought remoulade or your favorite creamy dressing if you need to save time.

How to Make Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Step 1: Make the Avocado Mash

In a medium bowl, mash up your ripe avocado with sliced green onion, plenty of chopped cilantro (or parsley), fresh lemon juice, a big pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of cayenne. Go for a texture that’s smooth with a few small chunks for the best bite. Stir well and taste—don’t be shy about adjusting the citrus or seasoning to your liking!

Step 2: Whip Up the Remoulade Sauce

Add mayonnaise, creole mustard, ketchup, horseradish, minced garlic, lemon juice, capers, green onion, cayenne, and paprika to a food processor or mixing bowl. Blitz until smooth and creamy. This sauce keeps in the fridge for a couple of days and is so worth the tiny extra step!

Step 3: Blacken the Shrimp

Toss peeled, deveined shrimp with a drizzle of oil and a hearty sprinkle of creole seasoning. Preheat a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them sizzle for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re gorgeous, lightly blackened, and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cucumber Bites

Slice your cucumber into thick rounds (about 1/2 inch each for the perfect sturdy base). Top each slice with a generous dollop of avocado mash, a blackened shrimp, and a drizzle of remoulade sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh, pretty touch.

How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness to these bites, and a tiny squeeze of extra lemon is never unwelcome. If you’re feeling festive, a pinch of extra creole seasoning or tiny diced red pepper looks beautiful too!

Side Dishes

Think simple, crisp salads (arugula or mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette) or a tray of roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites also pair fantastically with light summer soups or a cold sparkling beverage for a party or brunch vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the bites on a long platter for a striking buffet centerpiece, or serve them in individual mini cups for grab-and-go appetizers. For a playful twist, set out a “build your own” platter with all the components so guests can assemble their perfect bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store each component (shrimp, avocado mash, remoulade, and cucumber) in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The assembled bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to a day—expect a little softening of the cucumber.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for assembled Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites since cucumbers and avocado don’t thaw well. However, you can freeze cooked, seasoned shrimp for up to 2 months; just thaw and add to fresh cucumber and mash for speedy snacks later!

Reheating

To reheat the shrimp, pop them in a hot skillet for a quick minute or two until just warmed through—avoid the microwave, which can make them rubbery. Don’t reheat the assembled bites; just reassemble with freshly chilled cucumber and avocado mash.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a fresh, bold bite that instantly impresses, you truly can’t go wrong with Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites. I hope you love how easy, vibrant, and fun they are to make—and that they become a staple at all your gatherings and snack times. Give them a try, and let everyone marvel at your appetizer magic!

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