Summer is here, and with it comes a wave of warm weather, outdoor gatherings, and a craving for light, refreshing, and flavorful dishes. One ingredient that can help you achieve all of these things is the humble cucumber. Whether you’re looking to add some crunch to your next BBQ or impress your guests with a stylish appetizer, cucumbers are the perfect addition to many recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing cucumber appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. From classic combinations like cream cheese and dill to more adventurous pairings like spicy kimchi and goat cheese, there’s something for everyone in our collection of summer-ready snacks. So grab a glass of cold water, get ready to cool off with some delicious and easy-to-make recipes, and let the cucumber party begin!
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Bites
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a light and refreshing snack or appetizer. Crunchy cucumber slices wrapped in a creamy cheese filling, topped with fresh herbs – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Dollop a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Sprinkle with lemon zest and chives (if using) for added flavor and color.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemblage only)
Greek Cucumber Yogurt Dip
A refreshing and tangy dip that’s perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you need a cool and creamy accompaniment to your favorite snacks. This Greek Cucumber Yogurt Dip is a classic combination of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill that will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir again.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and chill!)
Spicy Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing and spicy twist on traditional rolls. Crunchy cucumber, fiery jalapeño, and creamy avocado come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed sheets (dried or toasted)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cucumber, jalapeño, and avocado.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of the cucumber-jalapeño-avocado mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation), 30 seconds (assembling)
Cucumber Avocado Tartare
A refreshing twist on traditional tartare, this Cucumber Avocado Tartare is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado and chopped cucumber.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Herbed Cucumber Canapés
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing and flavorful canapés, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 12-15 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the baguette cubes with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Top each toasted baguette cube with a cucumber slice, then sprinkle with the herb mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cucumber and Smoked Salmon Appetizers
A refreshing and elegant start to any meal, these bite-sized appetizers combine the coolness of cucumber with the smoky richness of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of smoked salmon
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toasted baguette rounds or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cucumber slices on a plate or platter.
2. Place a slice of smoked salmon on top of each cucumber slice.
3. Dollop a small amount of yogurt on top of the salmon.
4. Sprinkle with chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve on toasted baguette rounds or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation time only, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking)
Tangy Cucumber Relish Crostini
A refreshing twist on classic crostini, this recipe combines the sweetness of cucumber with a tangy relish and crispy baguette. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup relish (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese, mint leaves, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crostini are crispy.
5. Meanwhile, mix sliced cucumber with relish and chopped parsley.
6. Assemble the crostini by topping each slice with a spoonful of cucumber relish mixture.
7. Garnish with feta cheese, mint leaves, or other toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cucumber and Feta Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your snack or appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful treat. Sweet cherry tomatoes filled with a creamy cucumber-feta mixture will be the perfect addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and hollow out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the cucumber-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is warm and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cool Cucumber Gazpacho Shots
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional gazpacho! These chilled shots are perfect for hot summer days and can be served as an appetizer or palate cleanser.
Ingredients:
• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced fresh tomato
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water or ice cubes for chilling
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cucumbers, bell pepper, tomato, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
4. Add vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve.
6. Pour into shot glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Enjoy your Cool Cucumber Gazpacho Shots!
Cucumber and Mint Spring Rolls
Revitalize your taste buds with this refreshing spring roll recipe, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers (spring roll wraps)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water for soaking the rice paper wrappers.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sliced cucumber and chopped mint leaves.
3. Soak a rice paper wrapper in the warm water for about 10 seconds, until it becomes pliable.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the cucumber-mint mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as these are a snack or appetizer
Zesty Cucumber Hummus Platter
Bring a refreshing twist to your gatherings with this zesty cucumber hummus platter, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you crave a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 medium cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Pita chips or vegetables for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in parsley and set aside.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a platter or board.
4. Drizzle hummus over the cucumber.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve with pita chips or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber and Shrimp Skewers
Fresh flavors come together in this refreshing summer appetizer or light meal. Juicy shrimp, crunchy cucumber, and a hint of zesty lemon make for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a shrimp, a cucumber round, and a sprinkle of parsley onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cucumber Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on classic bruschetta. Crunchy baguette, creamy cucumber, and tangy balsamic glaze come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see below for recipe)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch pieces and toast until crispy.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture onto toasted baguette slices.
5. Top each slice with a cucumber slice and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Cucumber Kimchi Bites
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Cucumber Kimchi Bites, perfect for a quick and flavorful bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 20 wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cucumber slices, kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cucumber mixture in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Fry the kimchi bites in hot oil until golden brown, flipping occasionally (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cucumber and Dill Tea Sandwiches
Cucumber and Dill Tea Sandwiches
Refreshing tea sandwiches perfect for a light lunch or afternoon delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 slices white bread
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread a thin layer of the butter mixture on each slice of bread.
3. Arrange a few slices of cucumber on top of the butter.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the cucumber.
5. Top with a handful of mixed greens.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing two slices together, pressing gently.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Note: Best served immediately, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Cucumber and Pomegranate Salad Cups
A refreshing and healthy twist on traditional salads, these bite-sized cups combine the coolness of cucumbers with the sweetness of pomegranate.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or dried)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumber slices into small cups.
2. In a bowl, mix together the pomegranate seeds, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Spoon the pomegranate-yogurt mixture into each cucumber cup.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Cucumber and Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups
A refreshing summer appetizer that combines the flavors of cucumber, goat cheese, and mint in a crispy phyllo cup. Perfect for a light and elegant start to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sliced cucumber, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
4. Place a piece of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with olive oil.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cucumber-goat cheese mixture onto the center of the phyllo dough.
6. Fold the phyllo dough into a triangle or a cup shape, pressing the edges to seal.
7. Place the cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chilled Cucumber Soup with Croutons
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer soup! This light and airy chilled cucumber soup is perfect for a hot day, paired with crispy croutons for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the cucumbers until smooth.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the blended cucumber to the yogurt mixture and stir until combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil.
6. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with a pinch of salt and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Serve the chilled soup in bowls and top with croutons and chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cucumber and Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on traditional tartare. Crisp wonton chips provide a satisfying crunch, while the flavorful combination of cucumber, tuna, and herbs will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 crispy wonton chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cucumber, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a spoonful of the tartare on each wonton chip.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cucumber and Lime Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the coolness of cucumber with the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as halibut or sea bass), cut into small pieces
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces and lime juice.
2. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flaky.
3. Add the sliced cucumber to the bowl and stir gently.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: None (raw)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cucumber appetizer recipes! From classic combinations like cucumber and cream cheese to innovative twists like spicy sushi rolls, there’s something for every taste. Try making herbed canapés, smoked salmon bites, or tangy relish crostini to impress your guests. Or, keep things simple with cool gazpacho shots or chilled soup with croutons. Whatever you choose, these 20 recipes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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