Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites
Blackened Shrimp Cucumber Bites are a fresh and vibrant appetizer combining spicy, smoky blackened shrimp with crisp cucumber slices. Ready in under 20 minutes, this low-carb, protein-packed snack balances heat, crunch, and refreshing flavors, perfect for parties or quick bites.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 12 medium-sized peeled and deveined fresh shrimp
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning (blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Base and Garnishes
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley)
- Optional: Thin slices of jalapeño
- Optional: Spicy mayo or chipotle mayo, for serving
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and thoroughly dry the shrimp. Toss them in olive oil and evenly coat with blackening seasoning to ensure maximum flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until hot. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until blackened and cooked through. Remove from heat and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp while still warm.
- Slice the Cucumber: While the shrimp is cooking, wash the cucumber and slice it into thick rounds about half an inch thick, creating a stable base for the shrimp.
- Assemble the Bites: Place one blackened shrimp on each cucumber slice. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and add optional toppings like jalapeño slices or a dollop of spicy mayo if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the assembled bites on a platter and serve immediately while the shrimp is warm. They can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Notes
- Dry shrimp well before cooking to achieve a proper blackened crust.
- Use a hot skillet to ensure a good sear and avoid steaming the shrimp.
- Cook shrimp in batches if needed to maintain pan heat and even cooking.
- Cut uniformly thick cucumber slices for better presentation and ease of eating.
- Assemble bites just before serving to maintain cucumber crispness.
- Customize blackening seasoning cayenne and paprika levels to control spice intensity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: blackened shrimp, cucumber bites, appetizer, party snack, gluten free, spicy shrimp, healthy appetizer