Shrimp And Cucumber Canapes
Delicate shrimp and crisp cucumber canapes layered with flavorful ham and cream cheese, perfect for elegant appetizers or entertaining guests with fresh, savory bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil; add shrimp and cook 3 to 5 minutes or until shrimp turn pink.
- Drain well; rinse with cold water.
- Peel and devein shrimp; cover and chill.
- Wash cucumbers; trim ends.
- Cut into 1/2-inch slices.
- Scoop out the center of each cucumber slice to, but not through, the bottom.
- Invert cucumbers on paper towels and let stand for 30 minutes.
- Place ham in a large skillet; add water to cover.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes on each side.
- Drain the ham.
- Place ham in a food processor; pulse 10 times until chopped.
- Add cream cheese; pulse 10 times until blended.
- Spoon the mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a No. 5 tip.
- Pipe the ham and cream cheese mixture into each cucumber slice.
- Top each with a cooked shrimp.
- Garnish with diced pimiento and fresh parsley sprigs, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. If you can't find country ham, prosciutto or smoked turkey can be excellent substitutes. Make sure to chill the shrimp thoroughly for the best texture, and feel free to experiment with different herbs in the garnish, such as dill or cilantro, for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp and cucumber canapes are perfect for entertaining and pair beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing cocktail. Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside dishes like Baked Northern Beans for a delightful spread. They also make a great addition to a summer picnic or brunch menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover canapes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the cucumbers, it's best to store the filling separately and assemble them just before serving. Avoid reheating, as the shrimp is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Cucumber Canapes contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 prepare the canapes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber slices and filling in advance. Assemble the canapes just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and the shrimp fresh. This way, you can save time and ensure they taste their best at your event.
What should I do if I have leftover shrimp?
Leftover shrimp can be added to salads or pasta dishes for a quick meal. Alternatively, you can mix the shrimp with some avocado and lime for a delicious dip. However, for the canapes, it's best to use them fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked shrimp is a great time-saver. Just ensure they are thawed properly if frozen and chilled before assembling the canapes. The flavor and presentation will still be delightful, making this recipe even easier to whip up.
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).