These Shrimp and Cucumber Bites are light, refreshing, and oh-so-tasty! With juicy shrimp resting on crunchy cucumber slices, they make the perfect appetizer for any gathering.
They’re super easy to make, and I like to add a little dash of lemon for extra zing. Trust me, you’ll enjoy every crispy, shrimp-filled bite! 🦐🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Go for large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use grilled or baked shrimp instead of sautéed. You can substitute with cooked shrimp or even small crab claws if preferred.
Cucumber: A large cucumber is ideal for thick rounds. However, you can use English cucumbers for less watery bites. If you’re avoiding cucumbers, consider celery sticks for crunch or even zucchini slices!
Dill: Fresh dill brings a wonderful flavor, but if you don’t have it, parsley or chives can work too. Dried dill is an option, but you’ll need less—about one-third of the amount.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika or even chili powder can substitute. If you enjoy some heat, cayenne pepper gives a nice kick—just a pinch will do!
How Can I Cook the Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp requires some attention to timing, as they can easily overcook. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a clean skillet and preheat it over medium-high. This helps sear the shrimp nicely.
- After patting the shrimp dry, toss with oil and seasonings well. This enhances flavor.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side—watch for that lovely pink color and opaque appearance. They cook fast!
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re ready. They will continue to cook a bit from residual heat. This keeps them juicy!
Delicious Shrimp And Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
For the Cucumber:
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into 12 thick rounds
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus small sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by around 5 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up in just 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you want it spicy. Make sure all the shrimp are well coated with the seasoning.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink, opaque, and are cooked through. Remove from the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Prep the Cucumber:
While the shrimp are cooking, wash and slice the large cucumber into thick rounds, about ½ inch thick. These will be the base for your bites!
4. Make the Dill-Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice and chopped fresh dill. Take a brush or a spoon and lightly drizzle or brush some of this dill-lemon mixture onto each cucumber slice to add delicious flavor.
5. Assemble the Bites:
For an extra touch, you can finely chop a few cucumber pieces or use the seedy portion, mix it with a bit of dill and lemon juice, and spoon a small amount onto each cucumber slice. This acts like a little bed for the shrimp!
6. Top with Shrimp:
Next, place a cooked shrimp on top of each cucumber slice. They should fit nicely and look beautiful!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by garnishing each bite with a small sprig of fresh dill. Serve immediately as a refreshing and elegant appetizer that everyone will love!
These shrimp and cucumber bites are perfect for parties, light snacks, or a refreshing appetizer. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp before cooking. The best methods are to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for the Cucumber?
If you’re not a fan of cucumber, celery sticks or zucchini slices can make a great crunchy alternative. Just make sure to cut them into thick rounds similar to cucumber for a sturdy base.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, cucumbers are best enjoyed fresh. If you’ve assembled bites ahead of time, it’s best to eat them right away to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp and dressing in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh!
