These Shrimp and Cucumber Bites are a fresh and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp sit on top of crunchy cucumber slices, giving you a fun mix of textures. Perfect for snacks or parties!
Honestly, who can resist those bright colors? They’re like little gardens of flavor on a plate! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon to make everything pop. So easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, delivering a satisfying bite. If you’re looking for alternatives, scallops or cooked crab meat can also work well. Don’t hesitate to use frozen shrimp, just ensure they’re thawed properly!
Cucumber: The crunchiness of cucumber is key. English cucumbers are great for this dish since they have fewer seeds. If you can’t find cucumbers, zucchini slices can be a fun alternative, adding a different flavor!
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but avocado oil is a good substitute. For a lighter touch, canola or sunflower oil works fine too.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne gives a mild kick. I prefer smoked paprika for its unique flavor, but it’s nice to try out different kinds!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Overcook them and they turn rubbery, which is not what you want. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to give shrimp a nice sear.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they are done. They will continue cooking a bit from residual heat, so it’s best to avoid overcooking!
Feel free to taste one to check if it’s done, but don’t forget to let them cool slightly before assembling to avoid warming the cucumber!
Shrimp And Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 5 minutes for cooking, so in just 15 minutes, you’ll have a fabulous fresh appetizer ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by slicing the cucumber into 12 thick rounds, roughly 1/2 inch each. Once sliced, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp stay in place when you assemble the bites.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until they are evenly coated. This seasoning will give your shrimp a lovely flavor that pairs beautifully with the cool cucumber.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are pink and cooked through. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bites:
On a serving plate, arrange the cucumber slices neatly. Place one cooked shrimp on top of each cucumber slice. The vibrant colors will make your dish pop and surely impress your guests!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Add a small dill sprig on top of each shrimp for a fresh touch and a pretty appearance. Serve immediately as a delightful light appetizer. If you love a little extra zing, offer lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over each bite before enjoying!
This recipe yields a fresh, light, and flavorful appetizer combining the cool crispness of cucumbers and the smoky, juicy shrimp topped with aromatic dill. Perfect for entertaining or quick healthy snacks!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill in a pinch—just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can also add a nice flavor and color to your bites.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Shrimp And Cucumber Bites?
These bites are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become a bit soggy, so it’s best to eat them quickly!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp and cucumber ahead. Cook the shrimp and let them cool, then refrigerate them separately from the cucumber slices. Assemble right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!