Cucumber-Shrimp Spread
A refreshing and light spread combining shredded cucumber and tender shrimp, enhanced with fresh dill and a touch of sour cream. Perfect as an appetizer on bread or crackers, it offers a cool, savory flavor profile that appeals to seafood lovers and those seeking a healthy, easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the shredded cucumber and salt; let stand for 10 minutes.
- Place the cucumber in the center of a clean kitchen towel. Gather the corners to enclose the cucumber in a pouch.
- Squeeze the pouch to release excess liquid from the cucumber, discarding the liquid.
- Transfer the drained cucumber to a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the thawed shrimp, sour cream, and chopped dill. Stir to combine.
- Serve on cocktail bread, crisp breads, or rice cakes.
Tips & Substitutions
When shredding the cucumber, use a box grater for even pieces. If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill weed can be used, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish. For more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce. This spread also pairs well with other seafood recipes, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer repertoire.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber-shrimp spread is delightful served on cocktail bread, crisp breads, or rice cakes. For a complete appetizer platter, pair it with fresh vegetable sticks or a light salad. It also complements other seafood dishes, such as Elegant Seafood Crepes, making it a well-rounded choice for gatherings or casual entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber-shrimp spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency. When ready to serve again, simply give it a gentle stir to recombine before spreading it on your favorite base.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber-Shrimp Spread contains roughly 25 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Just make sure they are cooked and peeled before adding them to the spread. Fresh shrimp can add a different texture and flavor, but ensure they are properly chilled before serving for the best taste.
How can I make this spread more creamy?
To achieve a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more light sour cream or mixing in some cream cheese. You can also blend the ingredients in a food processor for a smoother consistency, which makes it easier to spread on your chosen base.
What can I serve with this spread?
This spread is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, fresh vegetable sticks, or alongside other seafood dishes like Stuffed Mushrooms With Crab Meat to create an appealing appetizer platter.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).