Shrimp Cucumber Cups 🥒🍤🍋🌿 Cool, Creamy, and Fresh With Zesty Shrimp in a Crisp Veggie Shell

This recipe brings together chilled shrimp, creamy filling, bright herbs, and a citrusy punch — all tucked into bite-sized cucumber “cups” that deliver crunch and freshness in every mouthful.

Light, pretty, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients (Makes 12–16 cups)

For the cups

• 2 large English cucumbers (or 3–4 Persian cucumbers)
• Salt (optional, for seasoning)

For the shrimp mixture

• ½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp cream cheese or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp mayo or sour cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon juice + ½ tsp zest
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika

To garnish

• More herbs or lemon zest
• Paprika or chili flakes
• Microgreens or edible flowers (for flair)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the cucumbers
Slice cucumbers into ¾-inch rounds. Use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop out the center of each slice, creating a shallow well — don’t go all the way through. Optionally sprinkle with a bit of salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes, then pat dry.

Step 2: Make the filling
In a bowl, combine chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mayo, lemon juice and zest, garlic, and herbs. Stir until creamy but still textured. Season to taste.

Step 3: Fill the cups
Spoon or pipe the shrimp mixture into each cucumber well. Chill for 15–30 minutes for best flavor and structure.

Step 4: Garnish and serve
Top each with extra herbs, a sprinkle of paprika or chili, and a touch of zest or microgreens if using. Serve cold.

Flavor Variations

• Swap cream cheese for whipped feta, hummus, or avocado mash
• Add chopped celery, red onion, or capers for crunch and brine
• Use Cajun or curry-spiced shrimp for a bold twist
• Mix in horseradish or wasabi for a sharper bite
• Top with a dot of cocktail sauce or sriracha mayo

Pro Tips

• Use seedless English cucumbers for easier scooping and cleaner texture
• Don’t overfill — a heaping teaspoon is plenty per cup
• For meal prep, store filling and cucumber separately and assemble fresh
• Chill shrimp mixture well for better pipeability and flavor

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Cucumber Cups are clean, cool, and satisfying — perfect when you want something light but full of flavor. Great for brunch, happy hour, or any time you want a beautiful no-cook bite that’s both refreshing and elegant.

Scoop it. Fill it. Chill it. 🥒🍤🍋🌿

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