What ingredients do I need to make spicy shrimp cucumber boats?

To prepare spicy shrimp cucumber boats, you’ll need cooked shrimp, fresh cucumbers, a spicy sauce typically made with mayo, Sriracha, lime juice, and garlic, plus optional toppings like green onions or cilantro. The cucumbers act as a crisp, refreshing vessel, while the shrimp is seasoned or tossed in the spicy sauce. This simple list of ingredients makes for a quick, fresh appetizer or snack that balances heat and coolness.

How do I prepare cucumbers for shrimp boats?

Start by selecting firm, medium-sized cucumbers. Wash and dry them thoroughly, then slice off the ends. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, creating a hollow “boat.” This cavity should be large enough to hold the shrimp mixture but not so much that it loses structural integrity. Keeping the cucumber chilled before assembling enhances the refreshing texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp for making spicy shrimp cucumber boats?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but it’s important to thaw them properly before preparing your cucumber boats. Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick thaw method by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the spicy sauce and make the cucumbers soggy.

How spicy are spicy shrimp cucumber boats, and can I adjust the heat level?

The spice level depends largely on the amount of hot sauce or chili paste used in the shrimp mixture. Typically, the recipe includes Sriracha or a similar hot sauce, which provides moderate heat. To adjust the spice, reduce the hot sauce or replace it with a milder chili powder. Alternatively, for more heat, add finely chopped fresh chili peppers or extra Sriracha. This flexibility allows you to cater to different spice tolerances.

What are good side dishes or drinks to serve with spicy shrimp cucumber boats?

Spicy shrimp cucumber boats pair well with light, refreshing sides that balance their heat and freshness. Consider serving a simple green salad, steamed rice, or a cold noodle dish. For drinks, chilled white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé, citrus-based cocktails, or iced teas with lemon complement the flavors nicely. These options help round out the meal while keeping the focus on the spicy shrimp appetizer.

Spicy Shrimp Cucumber Boats Recipe For A Fresh Snack

Name: Spicy Shrimp Cucumber Boats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 cup cooked sushi rice; – 2 large cucumbers; – 24 peeled and deveined shrimp; – 2 tablespoons olive oil; – 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; – 3/4 teaspoon onion powder; – 3/4 teaspoon paprika; – 3/4 teaspoon chili powder; – 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano; – Salt to taste; – 3 avocados, roughly mashed; – Juice of 1 lime for the avocado mash; – Salt to taste for the avocado mash; – 1/4 cup mayo for the spicy mayo; – 2 teaspoons sriracha for the spicy mayo; – 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional) for the spicy mayo; – Sesame seeds for garnish

Description

🍤 Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Boats deliver a fresh, flavorful snack that’s quick and easy to prepare.
🥒 Combining creamy avocado, seasoned shrimp, and crisp cucumber makes this a nutritious and satisfying choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

– 1 cup cooked sushi rice

– 2 large cucumbers

– 24 peeled and deveined shrimp

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

– 3/4 teaspoon onion powder

– 3/4 teaspoon paprika

– 3/4 teaspoon chili powder

– 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt to taste

– 3 avocados, roughly mashed

– Juice of 1 lime for the avocado mash

– Salt to taste for the avocado mash

– 1/4 cup mayo for the spicy mayo

– 2 teaspoons sriracha for the spicy mayo

– 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional) for the spicy mayo

– Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1-Step 1: Getting started with this recipe is simple and fun, taking just 20 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook for a total of 30 minutes. Begin by coating the shrimp in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the seasonings: 3/4 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and dried oregano, plus salt to taste. If you’re looking for more shrimp ideas, try our Mexican Shrimp Cocktail recipe for another tasty variation.

2-Step 2: Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until they’re opaque, about 2 minutes per side. While that’s happening, mix up the avocado mash by combining 3 avocados with the juice of 1 lime and salt to taste. For the spicy mayo, whisk together 1/4 cup mayo, 2 teaspoons sriracha, and 1 teaspoon lime juice if you want extra zing.

3-Step 3: Prepare the cucumbers by washing and drying them, then cutting them lengthwise into quarters and scooping out the seeds and flesh. Now, assemble each boat: spread about 1 tablespoon of avocado mash into the cucumber, add some cooked sushi rice, top with three shrimp, drizzle the spicy mayo, and sprinkle sesame seeds for a nice finish. Each cucumber boat counts as one serving, best enjoyed warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor.

Notes

🥒 Use zucchini instead of cucumber for a firmer texture alternative.
🌶 Adjust sriracha and lime juice amounts to match preferred spice and tanginess.
🥄 Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier option.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Sautéing, assembling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cucumber boat
Calories: 307 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 83 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Fiber: 7 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 8 mg

Keywords: shrimp avocado boats, cucumber boats, fresh snack, easy shrimp recipe