When it comes to light and refreshing appetizers, few ingredients can match the versatility and flavor of cucumbers. These cool and crunchy veggies are perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a palate cleanser. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delightful cucumber appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic combinations like cream cheese bites and Greek yogurt dip, to more adventurous options like spicy avocado rolls and Thai peanut bites, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive canapé, we’ve got you covered with these refreshing cucumber appetizer recipes.
Cucumber and cream cheese bites
These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for hot summer days. With the coolness of cucumber, the tanginess of cream cheese, and a hint of dill, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 package (about 20) crackers or crostini
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the chopped dill and stir to combine.
3. Arrange the cucumber slices on a clean work surface.
4. Spread about 1/2 tsp of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
5. Place a cracker or crostini on top of the cream cheese, pressing gently.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Greek cucumber yogurt dip
A refreshing and tangy dip perfect for hot summer days or as a snack with pita chips or vegetables. This Greek-inspired recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber, yogurt, and dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 16 oz plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the cucumber to release its excess water.
2. Drain the excess liquid from the cucumber mixture and discard the liquid.
3. Add the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, and garlic powder (if using) to the bowl with the cucumber. Mix well until combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy cucumber avocado rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, these Spicy Cucumber Avocado Rolls combine the creaminess of avocado with the crunch of cucumber and a kick of heat from spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon spicy mayo (or to taste)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by mixing together mashed avocado, cucumber slices, and a pinch of salt.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface.
3. Spread a thin layer of cooked Japanese rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place the avocado-cucumber mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Drizzle sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar over the filling.
6. Top with spicy mayo to taste.
7. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
8. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep), 2-3 minutes per roll
Asian-inspired cucumber salad
This light and zesty salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite stir-fry. With its sweet and sour flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Cucumber and smoked salmon canapés
Elevate your party with these elegant and flavorful canapés that combine the coolness of cucumber with the richness of smoked salmon. Perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a small amount of cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
5. Top with flaked smoked salmon.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cream cheese is set.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cool cucumber mint soup shots
Beat the heat with these refreshing soup shots that combine the cooling effects of cucumber and mint. Perfect as a palate cleanser or a light snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
– Salt to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the cucumber, mint leaves, and broth. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Stir in the Greek yogurt and season with salt to taste.
4. Pour the soup into small shot glasses or cups.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve cold, garnished with a sprig of mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Stuffed cucumber boats with crab
Add a touch of elegance to your summer gatherings with this easy-to-make and flavorful appetizer. Crisp cucumber boats filled with succulent crab mixture, perfect for warm weather entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cucumber boat with the crab mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cucumbers and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender but still crisp.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber and dill tea sandwiches
Elevate your tea party with these refreshing finger sandwiches, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices white bread (or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and chopped dill.
2. Lay out the bread slices.
3. Spread a small amount of the dill-mayo mixture on each slice.
4. Top with a few cucumber slices.
5. Fold the bread in half to create a triangle or a quarter.
6. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickled cucumber and onion skewers
Pickled Cucumber and Onion Skewers: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Snack
These bite-sized skewers combine the tanginess of pickled cucumbers with the sweetness of caramelized onions, making for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup pickling liquid (see below)
- 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Pickling Liquid:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumber and onion.
3. Pour pickling liquid over the vegetables and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated cucumber and onion slices onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized to your liking.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai cucumber peanut bites
These bite-sized treats combine the cooling freshness of cucumber with the creamy richness of peanut sauce, perfect for a hot summer day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying these addictive snacks in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumber into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Dip each cucumber piece into the peanut sauce, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated cucumber pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Cucumber and hummus stuffed cherry tomatoes
Brighten up your snack or appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Sweet cherry tomatoes are filled with a refreshing mix of creamy hummus, crunchy cucumber, and a hint of freshness.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
3. In a bowl, mix together hummus and a pinch of salt until smooth.
4. Add sliced cucumber to the hummus mixture and stir gently.
5. Stuff each tomato with about 1-2 teaspoons of the hummus-cucumber mixture.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic cucumber bruschetta
Elevate your summer gatherings with this easy-to-make bruschetta recipe that combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze, the crunch of fresh cucumber, and the richness of creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds, place on a baking sheet, and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and balsamic glaze.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on toasted bread, then drizzle with the balsamic mixture.
4. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cucumber and feta cheese stacks
A perfect summer snack or light lunch, these stacks combine the coolness of cucumber with the tanginess of feta cheese. Simple to prepare and visually appealing, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 thin slices of cucumber
– 1 block of crumbled feta cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled feta cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. To assemble the stacks, place a slice of cucumber on a plate or serving dish.
4. Top with a spoonful of feta mixture, followed by another slice of cucumber.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a slice of cucumber on top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Japanese cucumber sunomono
Sunomono is a classic Japanese cucumber salad that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for hot summer days. This simple recipe combines the crunch of cucumbers with the tanginess of soy sauce and vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Japanese cucumbers (or English cucumbers), sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and grated ginger.
2. Mix well to coat the cucumbers evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish if desired.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Cucumber and shrimp ceviche cups
This light and zesty recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick and easy snack. Fresh cucumber, succulent shrimp, and tangy lime juice come together to create a flavorful and refreshing bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium cucumbers, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 small cups or ramekins (about 1/2 cup each)
– Optional: additional garnishes like red onion, avocado, or crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, cucumber, lime juice, and cilantro.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the ceviche mixture into individual cups or ramekins.
6. Garnish with desired additional toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, raw dish.
Herbed cucumber and goat cheese tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack. The combination of cool cucumber, tangy goat cheese, and fragrant herbs is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of crumbled goat cheese in the center of each disk, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Arrange cucumber slices on top of the goat cheese.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber and mango salsa
This sweet and tangy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The combination of crunchy cucumber and juicy mango creates a refreshing flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 large cucumber, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is best served chilled, straight from the fridge.
Mediterranean cucumber olive tapenade
Experience the refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple tapenade recipe, perfect for snacking or as a dip for your favorite foods.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumbers, olives, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer tapenade to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber and radish rose platter
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and visually stunning platter featuring cucumbers, radishes, and edible flowers. Perfect for a light and healthy snack or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup violas or pansies (edible flowers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cucumber slices on a large platter or serving dish.
2. Top with radish slices, creating a pattern or design of your choice.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and edible violas or pansies.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
6. If desired, offer lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Cooking Time: None
Sweet and tangy cucumber relish
This refreshing relish is perfect for topping burgers, hot dogs, or using as a dip for snacks. The sweetness of the cucumbers and onions balances out the tanginess from the vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 3 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cucumbers, onions, sugar, vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the relish has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the relish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing cucumber appetizer recipes! From creamy bites to zesty dips and crunchy salads, there’s something for everyone. Try making Cucumber and cream cheese bites or Greek cucumber yogurt dip for a classic twist. Or, go bold with Spicy cucumber avocado rolls or Thai cucumber peanut bites. And don’t miss the unique flavor combinations like Cool cucumber mint soup shots or Stuffed cucumber boats with crab. These recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
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