Crispy cucumber slices topped with creamy, zesty guacamole and spicy shrimp—these Spicy Shrimp Guacamole Bites are a flavor-packed treat that I love serving at parties or enjoying as a quick, healthy snack. They’re gluten-free, low-carb, and perfect for anyone who enjoys a bold, refreshing bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ pound raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ripe avocados
1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 large English cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
Directions
I start by tossing the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt until they’re fully coated. Then I sear them in a hot skillet for just 1–2 minutes on each side, until they’re perfectly pink and cooked through. I let them cool slightly while I prepare the guacamole.
To make the guac, I mash ripe avocados and mix in jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. I season it with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
Then, I lay out the cucumber rounds on a platter and spoon a small dollop of guacamole onto each one. I top each with a cooked shrimp and sometimes add a little more cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika to finish them off.
I serve them right away to keep the textures crisp and fresh.
Servings and timing
Servings: 20 bites
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 110 kcal per bite
Variations
I sometimes swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
For extra crunch, I’ve tried adding a sliver of radish under the guacamole.
If I want more heat, I keep the jalapeño seeds in or drizzle a little hot sauce on top.
For a more filling version, I’ve served these on sweet potato rounds instead of cucumber.
Storage/Reheating
These bites are best eaten fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store the components separately. I keep the guacamole in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to avoid browning. The shrimp stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. I don’t recommend reheating the shrimp, but I do let them come to room temperature before assembling again.
FAQs
How can I keep the guacamole from browning?
I press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the guacamole and store it in an airtight container. The lime juice also helps slow down oxidation.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I prepare the shrimp and guacamole in advance but assemble the bites just before serving. This keeps the cucumber crisp and everything fresh.
What kind of shrimp works best?
I prefer medium shrimp because they fit perfectly on cucumber rounds, but I’ve also used small shrimp for bite-sized options.
Can I make this milder?
Yes! I reduce or skip the cayenne and jalapeño for a milder version that still has plenty of flavor from the smoked paprika and garlic.
Are these bites keto-friendly?
Yes, they’re low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, which makes them a great keto snack or appetizer.
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp Guacamole Bites are one of my favorite easy appetizers. They’re full of flavor, quick to make, and fit a variety of diets without compromising on taste. Whether I’m entertaining guests or just craving something bold and fresh, this recipe always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
Spicy Shrimp Guacamole Bites
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Spicy Shrimp Guacamole Bites are crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy guacamole and spicy shrimp, making a flavorful and refreshing appetizer or snack. They’re gluten-free, low-carb, and perfect for parties or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
½ pound raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ripe avocados
1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 large English cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt until fully coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, mash the avocados and mix in the jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the cucumber rounds on a serving platter.
- Spoon a dollop of guacamole onto each cucumber slice.
- Top each with a cooked shrimp.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
- Serve immediately to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for variation.
Place a sliver of radish under the guacamole for extra crunch.
For more heat, leave jalapeño seeds in or drizzle hot sauce on top.
Use sweet potato rounds instead of cucumber for a heartier version.
Store guacamole with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to avoid browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
