Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats

Name: Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Paprika for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love serving Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats at gatherings! They are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The crunch of the cucumber paired with the juicy shrimp creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re super quick to put together, making them a go-to appetizer when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a refreshing treat that I can whip up and serve with pride, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-23T15:22:19.326Z

My journey into making Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats started when I wanted to create a light and refreshing appetizer for a summer party. I experimented with different toppings and the combination of shrimp with a creamy dressing really hit the spot. The best part is that it’s a no-cook recipe, making it perfect for those hot days!

I’ve found that using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor significantly. Opting for jumbo shrimp and perfectly ripe cucumbers elevates this dish even further. It’s all about the balance of textures and flavors, and I can assure you, these little boats will be a hit at any event!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, refreshing flavors that dance on your palate
Easy to make with minimal preparation time
Perfect for parties or a light snack

The Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp correctly is key to achieving the ideal texture in your Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats. When boiling, keep a close watch as shrimp can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in a matter of seconds. Aim for a cook time of 2-3 minutes; they should appear pink and opaque. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider grilling the shrimp instead. Just toss them on a hot grill for about 2 minutes per side, ensuring they develop those lovely grill marks.

After cooking, make sure to cool the shrimp adequately before mixing them into your filling. This ensures that the cream cheese doesn't melt and creates a cohesive mixture. Place the drained shrimp in a bowl and submerge them in cold water or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before adding them to your filling.

Cucumber Choices

Selecting the right cucumbers is crucial for the base of these boats. I recommend using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers as they are less bitter, have smaller seeds, and are more tender than their regular counterparts. The long shape of these cucumbers not only provides ample space for the filling but also adds to the visual appeal of your appetizer.

When preparing the cucumbers, use a spoon with a rounded edge to scoop out the seeds without damaging the skin. This makes it easier to create the boat shape while maintaining structural integrity. If you prefer, you can use a melon baller for a more uniform scoop, ensuring that the cucumbers hold up well when filled.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats can be partially prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy hosts. You can cook the shrimp and prepare the filling a day in advance; just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors in your filling to meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

Assemble the boats just before serving to maintain the freshness of the cucumbers. However, if you're pressed for time, assembled boats can be stored for a couple of hours in the refrigerator. Just cover them with plastic wrap to prevent the cucumbers from drying out, and enjoy your lovely snack with ease!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika for garnish

Once you have everything gathered, you're ready to start preparing your scrumptious snack boats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats:

Cook the Shrimp

In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Cucumber

Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon to create boat shapes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add in the cooled shrimp and stir to combine.

Assemble the Boats

Fill each cucumber boat with the shrimp mixture, then sprinkle paprika over the top for garnish.

Serve

Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Cucumber Snack Boats as a light meal or an appetizer!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating diced red onions or a dash of hot sauce into the shrimp filling.

Flavor Variations

While the original recipe is delightful, you can customize the flavors of the shrimp filling. For a spicy kick, blend in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, feel free to substitute the dill with fresh basil or cilantro for an entirely different flavor profile. Experimenting with these herbs can transform your shrimp filling into a Mediterranean or Asian-inspired treat.

If you're looking for a lighter version, consider replacing the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This will add a tangy flavor while cutting down on calories. While it changes the texture slightly, it still binds the ingredients well and keeps the filling creamy.

Serving Suggestions

These snack boats not only serve as a great appetizer but can also be transformed into a light meal. Pair them with a light salad or vegetable platter for a refreshing lunch idea. For a themed gathering, serve them alongside other seafood dishes like smoked salmon or crab cakes to create a cohesive and inviting spread.

If you’re feeling creative, consider serving these shrimp boats on a platter of arugula or mixed greens for added color and presentation. The peppery notes from the greens complement the sweet shrimp and crunchy cucumber perfectly, elevating your dish from simple appetizers to a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are properly thawed and drained before cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It’s best to eat them fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Avocado or diced tomatoes can be great additions for extra flavor.