Spicy Shrimp Cucumber Sushi Boats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Spicy Shrimp Cucumber Sushi Boats are packed with flavor and texture. The crispy cucumber serves as a refreshing and crunchy base, while the sushi rice and creamy avocado mash create a rich contrast. The shrimp, seasoned with a blend of spices, adds a zesty kick, and the spicy mayo takes it all to another level with just the right amount of heat. It’s a low-carb alternative to traditional sushi that’s perfect for anyone craving fresh, bold flavors with a fun twist. Plus, it’s a no-cook recipe that’s quick to assemble, making it a great option for busy days or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients

Main Components

• 240 g sushi rice, cooked
• 2 large cucumbers
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Shrimp

• 24 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.75 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.75 teaspoon paprika
• 0.75 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.75 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt, to taste

Avocado Mash

• 3 ripe avocados, roughly mashed
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt, to taste

Spicy Mayo

• 60 ml Kewpie mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice: If you haven’t already, cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cucumber Boats: Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds from the center of each cucumber half to create a hollow “boat” shape. You can discard the seeds or use them in a salad. Sprinkle sesame seeds on the inside of the cucumber boats for added texture and flavor.
3. Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, and salt. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Prepare the Avocado Mash: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe avocados with the juice of 1 lime and a pinch of salt. You can mash it to your desired consistency, whether chunky or smooth.
6. Make the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and honey (if using). Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your preferred spice level.
7. Assemble the Sushi Boats: Once everything is ready, fill each cucumber boat with a spoonful of the cooled sushi rice. Add a layer of the avocado mash on top of the rice.
8. Top with Shrimp: Place 3 shrimp on each cucumber boat over the avocado mash. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the shrimp and garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired.
9. Serve: Arrange the sushi boats on a serving platter and enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 6-8 minutes (for the shrimp)
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the shrimp for tofu or tempeh, marinated in soy sauce and spices, for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• More Heat: If you love extra spice, increase the amount of Sriracha in the spicy mayo or add a few slices of fresh jalapeño on top.
• Additional Toppings: Top with sliced avocado, fresh herbs like cilantro, or even a sprinkle of nori flakes for an authentic sushi feel.
• Different Proteins: Use cooked and chilled crab, salmon, or even seared tuna for different variations of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These sushi boats are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store leftovers, keep the shrimp, avocado mash, and sushi rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Assemble just before serving.
• Reheating: Since the shrimp is cooked, you can store and reheat it, but the freshness of the cucumber boats and avocado is best enjoyed fresh. Warm up the shrimp in a skillet or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the shrimp ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just reheat it briefly in a skillet before assembling the sushi boats.

Can I make the avocado mash ahead of time?

It’s best to make the avocado mash just before serving to prevent it from browning. If you need to make it ahead, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the mash to minimize air exposure.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use regular mayonnaise, but Kewpie mayonnaise will give the spicy mayo a slightly richer and creamier flavor. If you’re looking for a more authentic taste, Kewpie is the way to go.

What can I use if I don’t have sesame seeds?

If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can use other seeds like chia or pumpkin seeds for crunch. Alternatively, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts can provide a similar texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by replacing the shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or another plant-based protein. Simply season and cook the tofu the same way you would the shrimp.

How do I make the spicy mayo milder?

To make the spicy mayo less hot, reduce the amount of Sriracha or add a bit more honey to balance the spice. You can also use a milder hot sauce or even skip the Sriracha altogether.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Be sure to check the labels of your mayonnaise and Sriracha to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I serve this as an appetizer or a main dish?

These spicy shrimp cucumber sushi boats make a fantastic appetizer or light meal. If you want to make it a more substantial main dish, you can serve it alongside a salad or another light side dish.

How can I make this dish more filling?

To make the sushi boats more filling, add more rice to each boat or serve with a side of edamame, miso soup, or a green salad for a more balanced meal.

Can I use a different type of seafood?

Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with other types of seafood like scallops, crab meat, or even thinly sliced smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

These Spicy Shrimp Cucumber Sushi Boats are a fun, fresh, and flavorful take on traditional sushi. With perfectly seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy spicy mayo, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a light, satisfying meal. Quick and easy to assemble, it’s a great way to enjoy sushi without the hassle of rolling, and it’s the perfect combination of heat, freshness, and crunch. Try them out today and enjoy these delicious bite-sized sushi boats!

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