Can I assemble these in advance for a party?

It’s best to prep each component ahead (rice, shrimp, avocado mash, spicy mayo), but assemble the boats within an hour of serving for peak freshness. Cucumber and avocado mash can lose their crispness and color if they sit too long.

What can I use if I don’t have sushi rice?

No problem—any sticky rice works well, or even regular white or brown rice in a pinch. You can skip the rice entirely for a lighter, carb-free version.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier or milder?

Absolutely. Add more or less Sriracha to your mayo, or offer extra hot sauce on the side if you’re feeding spice lovers. For a milder sauce, simply use less Sriracha or mix in more mayo or a drop of honey.

How do I choose the best cucumbers?

Go for large, firm cucumbers with crisp skin. English or hothouse cucumbers are ideal since they have fewer seeds and tender skin—no peeling needed!

Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Boats Recipe

Name: Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Boats Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion (Asian-inspired)
Ingredients: 24 shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbs olive oil; 3/4 tsp garlic powder; 3/4 tsp onion powder; 3/4 tsp paprika; 3/4 tsp chili powder; 3/4 tsp dried oregano; Salt, to taste; 3 avocados, roughly mashed; 1 lime, juiced; Salt, to taste; 1/4 cup Kewpie mayo (or regular mayo); 2 tsp Sriracha sauce; 1 tsp honey (optional); 1 cup sushi rice, cooked; 2 large cucumbers; 1 tbs sesame seeds

Description

These Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Boats are a refreshing and flavorful appetizer featuring juicy shrimp, creamy avocado mash, sushi rice, and a spicy mayo drizzle, all nestled in crisp cucumber boats. Perfect for summer gatherings or a healthy snack, this easy-to-make recipe combines irresistible textures and bold flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Shrimp

24 shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbs olive oil
3/4 tsp garlic powder
3/4 tsp onion powder
3/4 tsp paprika
3/4 tsp chili powder
3/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt, to taste

Avocado Mash

3 avocados, roughly mashed
1 lime, juiced
Salt, to taste

Spicy Mayo

1/4 cup Kewpie mayo (or regular mayo)
2 tsp Sriracha sauce
1 tsp honey (optional)

Assembly

1 cup sushi rice, cooked
2 large cucumbers
1 tbs sesame seeds

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Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, coat the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, and salt. Mix well to ensure even coverage. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until opaque and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.
Make the Avocado Mash: In a bowl, combine the roughly mashed avocados, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo: Whisk together Kewpie mayo, Sriracha sauce, and honey (if using) in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the ingredients for your preferred spice level and sweetness.
Prepare the Cucumbers: Thoroughly wash and dry the cucumbers. Slice each cucumber in half lengthwise, then halve those pieces to create four quarters per cucumber. Using a spoon, gently scoop out most of the seeds and some flesh to create a “boat” for the fillings.
Assemble the Boats: Spread about 1 tablespoon of avocado mash into the bottom of each cucumber boat. Layer in a spoonful of cooked sushi rice, gently spreading it out. Top with three shrimp per boat, then drizzle with spicy mayo and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For even more flavor, refrigerate the spicy mayo for 10-15 minutes before using.
You can substitute regular mayonnaise for Kewpie mayo if needed.
Adjust the spice of the mayo by increasing or decreasing the Sriracha to taste.
Serve immediately for best texture, as the cucumber boats can become watery over time.
Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, green onions, or extra sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 boat
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 60mg