Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites: Your Ultimate Healthy, Easy, and Flavorful Appetizer
Searching for the perfect appetizer that’s both impressive and incredibly simple to make? Look no further than these vibrant Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Ideal for weekend gatherings, impromptu get-togethers, or even a light, satisfying snack, these delightful bites offer a refreshing twist on classic party food. Each piece features perfectly grilled, seasoned shrimp and creamy Hatch Chile Guacamole, elegantly layered on crisp cucumber rounds. They’re so irresistible, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!
My love for effortless appetizers runs deep, and these Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites truly embody that philosophy. The concept is beautifully simple: fresh cucumber rounds, lightly peeled and sliced, are topped with a generous dollop of rich guacamole, then crowned with succulent grilled shrimp. From prep to plate, these savory morsels can be ready to devour in as little as twelve minutes, making them a dream come true for hosts and guests alike. This recipe doesn’t just promise ease; it delivers on a burst of fresh flavors, making it a standout addition to any menu. Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb option, a Whole30 compliant dish, or just a deliciously healthy bite, these cucumber appetizers tick all the boxes.
The Art of Grilling Shrimp for Perfect Appetizers
There’s something uniquely appealing about the slightly charred, smoky flavor that grilling imparts, especially to delicate proteins like shrimp. This specific grilled shrimp recipe is designed to bring out the best in your seafood, ensuring each bite of your Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites is packed with an irresistible savory punch. Achieving perfectly grilled shrimp is surprisingly simple, even for novice grillers. The key lies in proper seasoning, correct temperature, and mindful cooking times.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Shrimp:
- **Preheat Your Grill:** Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high temperature, typically between 350-450 degrees F. This ensures a quick sear and prevents the shrimp from sticking.
- **Season the Shrimp:** In a spacious mixing bowl, gently drizzle your raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp (around 26-30 count per pound, often found at stores like Sprouts) with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the seasonings adhere. Next, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with this aromatic blend. These spices contribute a delightful depth and warmth, perfectly complementing the fresh guacamole and cucumber.
- **Skewer for Success:** For easier handling on the grill and to prevent smaller shrimp from falling through the grates, thread them onto skewers. You can use metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, ensuring they’re not too tightly packed so they cook evenly.
- **Grill to Perfection:** Place the skewered shrimp over direct, medium heat. Grill for a total of 5-7 minutes, making sure to turn the skewers halfway through the cooking process. This ensures both sides get that desirable char and even cooking. Keep a close eye on them, as shrimp cooks quickly.
- **Check for Doneness:** You’ll know the shrimp are perfectly cooked when their exterior turns a vibrant pink color, and the meat inside is white and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so remove them from the grill as soon as they reach this stage.
For an elegant presentation of these Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites, I often choose to leave the shrimp tails on. It adds a festive touch that truly elevates the visual appeal of this shrimp recipe. However, if you’re preparing these as a party appetizer where ease of eating is paramount, especially for a casual gathering with friends, feel free to remove the tails before plating. This makes them perfectly bite-sized and mess-free, ensuring your guests can enjoy every single flavorful morsel without any fuss.
Choosing the Right Cucumber for Your Bites
The foundation of these delightful Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites is, of course, the cucumber. Selecting the correct type is crucial for achieving the perfect size, texture, and stability for your appetizer. While many varieties exist, not all are equally suited for this particular recipe.
For these bites, you’ll want to opt for the typical garden cucumber, often labeled as slicing cucumbers, which are commonly used for salads. These cucumbers are generally about 8-10 inches long and have a good diameter, allowing you to slice them into substantial rounds that can hold the toppings without breaking. Their firm texture provides an excellent, refreshing base.
It’s important to avoid Persian cucumbers for this recipe, as they are typically too small and slender to create a stable base for the shrimp and guacamole. While wonderful for pickles or small salads, their miniature size won’t yield enough surface area for these substantial bites. Similarly, English cucumbers, while long and seedless, are often too thin to provide the desired sturdy round for this appetizer. Their delicate nature might also make them prone to wilting quickly once sliced.
When it comes to peeling your cucumber, it’s largely a matter of personal preference and aesthetics. You certainly don’t have to peel it if you prefer the slightly firmer texture and added nutrients of the skin. However, for a more polished and “festive” presentation, especially if you’re aiming for a uniform look, peeling the cucumber can make the bites appear more refined. The choice is entirely yours – do what makes you happy and best fits the occasion!
Health Benefits and Dietary Adaptations
These Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites aren’t just delicious; they’re also wonderfully healthy and adaptable to various dietary needs. They are naturally low-carb, making them an excellent choice for those managing carbohydrate intake. For an extra layer of flavor and a creamy, tangy touch, a garnish of crumbled queso fresco (or cotija cheese) is highly recommended.
If you’re following a Whole30 diet or need to avoid dairy, simply omit the cheese. Rest assured, these bites remain incredibly delicious, festive, and full of smoky flavor even without it. The natural freshness of the cucumber, the rich guacamole, and the savory grilled shrimp create a harmonious flavor profile that stands strong on its own. They are a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free, flavorful snack or appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
Other Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful appetizers like these Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few other fantastic recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings:
- Classic Deviled Eggs: A timeless crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering.
- Sweet + Spicy Meatballs: A delightful blend of flavors that’s always a hit at parties.
- Prosciutto Wrapped Apples with Brie and Balsamic: An elegant and sophisticated appetizer with a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
These recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy alongside your Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites.
Tips for Perfect Guacamole
The guacamole is a crucial component of these bites, providing a creamy, flavorful layer that beautifully complements the shrimp and cucumber. While the recipe specifies Sprouts brand Hatch Chile Guacamole for convenience, you can certainly make your own homemade version for an even fresher taste. If opting for homemade, ensure your avocados are ripe but firm enough to mash easily. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice is essential not only for flavor but also to prevent browning. A touch of finely chopped cilantro, a pinch of salt, and perhaps a tiny bit of minced red onion or jalapeño can elevate your guacamole to perfection.
When combining your chosen guacamole with fresh lime juice and cilantro, as instructed in the recipe, you’re enhancing its natural brightness and adding another layer of herbaceous flavor. This ensures the guacamole layer is as dynamic and appealing as the grilled shrimp it accompanies.
Make-Ahead and Storage Suggestions
One of the beauties of these Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites is that some components can be prepared in advance, saving you time when you’re ready to serve. You can:
- **Grill the Shrimp:** Grill and season the shrimp ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- **Prepare Guacamole:** If using store-bought, it’s ready to go. If making homemade, prepare it just before assembly or a few hours in advance, ensuring it’s covered tightly to prevent oxidation. Adding a thin layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole helps keep it fresh.
- **Slice Cucumbers:** Slice your cucumbers no more than a few hours before serving to maintain their crispness. Store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Assemble the bites just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture. The cucumber rounds are best when crisp, and the guacamole is at its prime when freshly scooped. While the individual components store well, assembled bites are best enjoyed immediately to prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy and the guacamole from browning.
Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites
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Ingredients
- 1- pound raw shrimp — 26–30 count – peeled and deveined, thawed to package directions
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup Sprouts brand Hatch Chile Guacamole – found in the produce section
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro — plus more to garnish
- 1 cucumber about 8-10″ – peeled and sliced into 1/2″ rounds
- ¼ cup queso fresco – crumbled
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, drizzle shrimp with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Toss gently to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated.
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Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each for even cooking, which also makes them easier to handle on the grill.
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Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, targeting 350-450 degrees F. Grill the skewered shrimp over direct heat for 5-7 minutes. Remember to turn the shrimp halfway through the grilling process to cook them thoroughly on both sides. The shrimp are ready when their outer layer turns a beautiful pink, and the inside meat is opaque white.
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In a separate small bowl, combine the 1 cup of Hatch Chile Guacamole with the 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro. Stir gently until well mixed.
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To elegantly assemble your Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites: Place a spoonful of the zesty Hatch Chile Guacamole mixture onto each peeled and sliced cucumber round. Carefully top each with one grilled shrimp. For an added touch of freshness and flavor, garnish with extra fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. Serve these delightful bites immediately to enjoy their optimal crispness and vibrant taste.
Notes
The nutrition information provided is calculated for one (1) individual Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bite round.
Nutrition
These Guacamole and Shrimp Cucumber Bites are more than just an appetizer; they are a statement of fresh, healthy, and easy entertaining. With their vibrant colors, delightful textures, and harmonious blend of flavors, they are sure to be a star at any gathering. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness!
Thank you to Sprouts Farmers Market for sponsoring today’s post. All opinions are my own. Please see the disclaimer here.