Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers

INGREDIENTS:

Makes 22 appetizers

For the Cajun Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 Tbsp cilantro, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided

For the Avocado Spread:
1 avocado
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp lime juice

Additional Ingredients:
1 English cucumber, sliced into 22 rings

DIRECTIONS:

Preparing the Cajun Shrimp:
Marinate the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir well to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy pan over medium/high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for about 2 minutes per side or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Making the Avocado Spread & Assembling:
Prepare the Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with salt and lime juice until creamy.
Assemble the Appetizers: Place a spoonful of the avocado spread on each cucumber slice. Top each with a cooked shrimp …