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If you’re looking for a light, flavorful appetizer that wows your guests, look no further than crispy shrimp cucumber cups. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers an enticing combination of textures and flavors that make it a standout choice for any gathering. The crunch of fresh cucumbers complements the crispy shrimp, while the creamy filling adds a delightful richness that balances the dish beautifully.

Shrimp Cucumber Cups

Discover the perfect appetizer for any occasion with crispy shrimp cucumber cups! These refreshing bites feature a crunchy cucumber base topped with savory, seasoned shrimp and a creamy filling made from cream cheese and Greek yogurt. They're light, healthy, and easy to prepare, making them the ideal choice for summer gatherings or elegant dinner parties. Impress your guests with this vibrant dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully while being low in calories.

Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 large cucumber

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Paprika, for garnish

Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the spices.

    Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon). Once the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let them cool off to room temperature.

      Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Using a fork or a hand mixer, blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy with a well-incorporated flavor.

        Prepare the Cucumber: Slice the cucumber into rounds about 1-inch thick. For stability, trim off a small portion from the ends of the cucumber rounds if needed to create a flat base.

          Assemble the Cups: Take each cucumber round and use a small melon baller or a spoon to carefully hollow out a small indentation in the center, creating a cup that will hold the filling.

            Fill the Cups: Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip or a small spoon, carefully fill each cucumber cup with the cream cheese mixture until it is heaped slightly over the top.

              Top with Shrimp: Once all the cucumber cups are filled, place a cooked shrimp on top of the filling in each cup, allowing the shrimp to perch delicately.

                Garnish: Lightly sprinkle paprika over each shrimp for a vibrant splash of color and adorn with small sprigs of fresh dill on top for an added touch of freshness.

                  Chill & Serve: Arrange the completed cucumber cups on a serving platter and place in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to chill and set. Serve cold to enjoy as a refreshing appetizer that balances flavors and textures beautifully.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 12 cucumber cups

                      Presentation Tips: Arrange the cucumber cups on a colorful platter and garnish with additional lemon wedges and dill sprigs for a festive touch.