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Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups

Delightful bite-sized appetizers featuring perfectly cooked shrimp, creamy avocado, and light flaky phyllo dough, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Keyword: Appetizer Recipe, Avocado Cups, Finger Food, Phyllo Cups, Spicy Shrimp
Servings: 12 pieces
Calories: 175kcal

Ingredients

For the Phyllo Cups

  • 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed to create a light and crispy shell
  • 4 tbsp melted butter or olive oil for brushing the dough layers

For the Filling

  • 2 ripe avocados creamy and packed with healthy fats
  • 1 Juice lime for a zesty touch
  • 1 clove garlic, minced for aromatic flavor
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped to add freshness
  • to taste Salt and pepper to elevate flavors
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined the star of this dish
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for warmth and a subtly smoky flavor
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to give that spicy kick
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing the shrimp

Garnishes

  • Lime wedges for a pop of color
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for a beautiful finishing touch

Instructions

Prepare the Phyllo Cups

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush each sheet of phyllo dough with melted butter or olive oil.
  • Layer the sheets four deep for extra flakiness and cut them into 3-inch squares.
  • Press each square into a mini muffin tin to create little cups.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
  • Set aside to cool.

Make the Avocado Mixture

  • In a mixing bowl, mash the avocados until creamy.
  • Add the lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir until well combined and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cook the Shrimp

  • In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and slightly charred.

Assemble the Cups

  • Spoon a generous dollop of the creamy avocado mixture into each baked phyllo cup.
  • Top each cup with a single spicy shrimp.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a lime wedge.

Serve

  • Arrange the phyllo cups on a festive platter and serve immediately.

Notes

Work quickly when preparing the phyllo cups as the dough dries out rapidly. Adjust spice levels to preference. Consider adding garlic aioli or black sesame seeds for a gourmet touch.