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Flavorful Firecracker Shrimp Cocktail Cups

firecracker shrimp cocktail cups - featured image
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A bold and easy appetizer combining spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies served in individual cups for a fresh and fun bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for garnish)
  • Optional: Mini lettuce cups or small tortilla cups for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque with slight crisp edges. Avoid overcrowding.
  3. Whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, honey, and soy sauce in a bowl. Adjust heat and sweetness to taste.
  4. Dice cucumber, avocado, red bell pepper, and slice green onions. Combine in a bowl, adding avocado last to prevent browning.
  5. Spoon firecracker sauce into the bottom of each serving cup or lettuce cup. Layer diced vegetables, then top with 2-3 cooked shrimp. Drizzle more sauce on top and garnish with cilantro and lime wedge.
  6. Serve immediately for best freshness and contrast between warm shrimp and cool veggies.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Prepare veggies last to keep them crisp. Assemble cups just before serving to prevent avocado browning. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For dairy-free, substitute vegan mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp cocktail, firecracker shrimp, appetizer, spicy shrimp, easy party food, shrimp cups, bold appetizers

Find it online: https://grubella.com/flavorful-firecracker-shrimp-cocktail-cups-easy-recipe-for-bold-appetizers/