Christmas Appetizers Recipes: Seafood & Cucumber

Welcome to this delectable holiday recipe guide where we’ll be crafting a plate of Christmas Seafood & Cucumber Appetizers that are sure to impress your guests. These appetizers are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. They make the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Christmas Seafood & Cucumber Appetizers:

• 1 big cucumber
• 150g (3/5 cup) natural flavored cream cheese
• 1-2 tsp horseradish, grated
• About 100-150g (about 2/3 cup or 5.3 oz) smoked salmon
• Fresh dill for serving
• ½ – 1 big avocado
• ½ red onion, medium
• Some fresh lime juice
• 2 small branches fresh coriander
• About 200g (12-15 prawns) king prawns
• 1-2 cloves garlic
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s start creating these delightful Christmas Seafood & Cucumber Appetizers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber Slices:
   • Begin by slicing the cucumber into thick slices. Arrange these slices neatly on a serving plate.
2. Cream Cheese and Salmon Appetizers:
   • In a small bowl, combine the natural flavored cream cheese and grated horseradish.
   • Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.
   • Take half of the cucumber slices and top them with the cream cheese and horseradish mixture.
   • Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of each cucumber slice with the cream cheese, and finish it off with a small sprig of fresh dill.
3. Avocado and Prawn Appetizers:
   • Finely dice the red onion and chop the fresh coriander.
   • In a medium bowl, roughly mash the avocado with a fork, leaving some texture (no need to make it completely smooth).
   • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mashed avocado to prevent it from browning and to add a zesty flavor.
   • Add the diced red onion and chopped coriander to the mashed avocado.
   • Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Cook the Prawns:
   • Heat a medium pan over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
   • Slice the garlic cloves and add them to the warm oil. Allow the garlic to infuse the oil for a short moment.
   • Place the king prawns into the pan and season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Fry the prawns for approximately two minutes on one side, then flip them over, season again, and fry for an additional minute or until they are cooked through.
   • Remove the prawns from the pan and let them cool briefly.
5. Assemble the Prawn Appetizers:
   • Once the prawns have cooled slightly, arrange them on top of the cucumber slices with the avocado topping.

Seafood & Cucumber Appetizers | Simple Appetizers

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I prepare these appetizers in advance for a party? A: Yes, you can prepare the cucumber slices, cream cheese mixture, and avocado topping in advance. Assemble the appetizers just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

Q: Can I substitute cream cheese with another type of cheese? A: While cream cheese works wonderfully for this recipe, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or Boursin for a unique twist.

Q: What can I use as a garnish if I don’t have fresh dill? A: If fresh dill is unavailable, you can use chives or parsley as an alternative garnish.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of these appetizers? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the salmon and prawns and focusing on the cucumber and avocado toppings. You can also explore vegetarian seafood alternatives if desired.

Q: How long can I store these appetizers in the refrigerator? A: These appetizers are best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store leftovers, cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the cucumber may lose some crispness over time.

Q: Can I add a squeeze of lemon juice to the prawns for extra flavor? A: Absolutely! A squeeze of lemon juice over the cooked prawns can enhance their flavor and add a refreshing citrusy note.

These Christmas Seafood & Cucumber Appetizers are a delightful addition to your holiday table, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging in a special treat, these appetizers are sure to be a hit. Get creative with your presentation and enjoy the compliments from your guests as they savor each delicious bite.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking and happy holidays!