Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers

Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers are a refreshing and light bite-sized snack that combines the creamy richness of avocado, the crispness of cucumber, and the delicate flavor of shrimp. The shrimp is often cooked and seasoned with a bit of lemon or garlic, then placed on slices of fresh cucumber. The cucumber serves as a crunchy base, topped with a scoop of creamy avocado, and often finished with a drizzle of zesty sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

I first made Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers when I was craving something fresh and light, but still full of flavor. The crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and tender shrimp create the perfect combination of textures and tastes. What I love most about this recipe is how easy and quick it is to assemble, and how versatile it can be. You can add a touch of spicy mayo or sriracha for some heat or even toss in some finely diced tomatoes or red onion for extra flavor. Whether for a summer gathering, party, or as a light snack, these appetizers are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

Mocktail parties
Summer gatherings
Dinner parties
Healthy snacks
Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers will become your go-to hors d’oeuvre:

Refreshing Flavors: The combination of creamy avocado and cool cucumber creates a refreshing contrast with the tender shrimp.
Elegant Presentation: These bite-sized appetizers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for impressing your guests.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, these appetizers can be assembled in no time.
Light and Healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients, they’re a guilt-free indulgence, ideal for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying snack.
Versatile Topping: Customize the shrimp with a variety of seasonings, from citrus to spicy, for added flavor.
No-Cook Option: The shrimp can be cooked in advance, making this recipe even easier to assemble when needed.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal dinner, these appetizers elevate the dining experience.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the avocado and cucumber ahead of time, making it easy to assemble just before serving.
Full of Healthy Fats: Avocados provide healthy fats, making these appetizers a nutritious treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of fresh ingredients and savory shrimp will be a hit with your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Appetizers:

1 large avocado, peeled and pitted
1 cucumber, sliced into rounds
12 large shrimp, cooked and peeled
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Garnish:

Fresh cilantro leaves
Lime wedges

Ingredient Highlights

Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to balance the dish.
Cucumber: Brings a refreshing crunch and coolness, complementing the richness of avocado.
Shrimp: Provides a protein-packed bite with a subtle sweetness.
Olive Oil and Lime Juice: Enhance the flavors, bringing a slight tang and richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Prep the Shrimp: Cook and peel the shrimp, then slice each one in half horizontally if they’re large.
Slice the Cucumber: Cut the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a serving platter.
Mash the Avocado: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Appetizers:

Spread the Avocado: Spoon a small amount of mashed avocado onto each cucumber round.
Top with Shrimp: Place one piece of shrimp on top of the avocado, pressing gently to secure it.
Season: Sprinkle smoked paprika over the shrimp for a hint of smokiness (optional).

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish: Top each appetizer with a fresh cilantro leaf and a small lime wedge.
Serve: Arrange the appetizers on a platter and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers:

As a Starter: Serve as a light appetizer at the beginning of a meal.
At a Mocktail Party: Pair with mocktails.
For Summer BBQs: Serve chilled for a refreshing option alongside grilled meats.
As a Healthy Snack: Enjoy these as a satisfying, low-carb snack anytime.
For a Fancy Brunch: These appetizers can be part of a sophisticated brunch spread.
With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with a spicy cocktail sauce or tangy salsa for an added flavor boost.
As a Wedding Appetizer: Serve as an elegant bite-sized option at weddings or other formal events.
On a Salad Plate: Arrange them on top of a light green salad for a complete meal.
With a Side of Guacamole: Serve alongside a small bowl of guacamole for extra avocado goodness.
As a Make-Ahead Snack: Prepare the shrimp and avocado mixture ahead of time for easy assembly on the day of your event.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Season the Shrimp Well: Marinate the shrimp with a little olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper for extra flavor before grilling or sautéing.
Use Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that are perfectly ripe—soft but not mushy. This will ensure they blend well into the appetizer and offer a creamy texture.
Pickle the Cucumber: For added zest, you can pickle the cucumber slices for a couple of hours with a little vinegar and sugar before serving.
Customize with Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or parsley to the shrimp mixture for extra flavor and color.
Add a Kick: If you like spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the avocado mixture or sprinkle on top.
Try Different Types of Shrimp: Experiment with different types of shrimp, such as black tiger or jumbo shrimp, for a more dramatic presentation.
Use Lime Zest: For a punch of citrus flavor, sprinkle some lime zest over the top of the appetizer just before serving.
Serve with a Crunch: To balance the creamy avocado and soft shrimp, serve the appetizers on a crunchy base like crispy toast points, crackers, or even thinly sliced cucumber.
Prepare in Advance: You can prepare the avocado mixture and cooked shrimp ahead of time, just assemble the appetizer right before serving to avoid sogginess.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Shrimp Appetizers: Add a sprinkle of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the shrimp for some heat.
Vegan Version: Replace shrimp with marinated tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
Add Mango: Add a small slice of fresh mango to each appetizer for a tropical twist.
Herbed Avocado: Mix chopped herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro into the mashed avocado for extra flavor.
Smoked Salmon: Swap shrimp for smoked salmon for a luxurious variation.
Greek-Inspired Version: Use feta cheese crumbles in the mashed avocado for a Mediterranean twist.

Special Equipment

Small Mixing Bowl: For mashing the avocado and mixing the ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the cucumber and shrimp.
Serving Platter: To display the appetizers elegantly.
Spoon: For spreading the mashed avocado evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before assembling the appetizers.
How long do these appetizers last?
They’re best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 hour before serving.
Can I make these in advance?
You can prep the avocado and cucumber in advance, but assemble the appetizers just before serving to keep them fresh.
Can I skip the lime juice?
Lime juice adds a refreshing tang, but you can substitute it with lemon juice or leave it out entirely.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
Parsley or basil can be used as a substitute for cilantro for a different flavor.
Can I make these appetizers without shrimp?
Yes, try using roasted vegetables or other protein alternatives such as grilled chicken or tofu.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Keep the mashed avocado covered and refrigerated until ready to use, and add lime or lemon juice to help prevent browning.

Conclusion

Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers are a refreshing, light, and flavorful bite that’s perfect for any gathering or as a healthy snack. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the cool, crisp cucumber, while the shrimp add a savory, protein-packed element. The combination of fresh ingredients, like a squeeze of lime, cilantro, and a hint of garlic or chili, makes these appetizers burst with vibrant flavors.

These appetizers can be made by slicing the cucumber into rounds and topping them with mashed avocado, seasoned shrimp, and a drizzle of olive oil or a light dressing. They’re great for parties, as they’re easy to prepare, and they offer a healthy yet indulgent feel. You can also garnish them with a little extra lime juice, sesame seeds, or chopped herbs for an added touch of freshness.

I can’t wait to see how your Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made these appetizers your own!