Stuffed Cucumber Cups
These refreshing stuffed cucumber cups offer a creamy, flavorful filling perfect for appetizers or light snacks, ideal for parties, gatherings, or healthy snack options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash 3 small cucumbers and score lengthwise with a fork.
- Cut cucumbers in halves crosswise; cut off ends and hollow out centers, discarding seeds.
- Save the cucumber pulp.
- Sprinkle the insides of the cucumber cups with salt and pepper.
- Chill the cucumber cups for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, finely chopped cucumber pulp, salt, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Fill the hollowed cucumber cups with the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve on beds of fresh lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the cream cheese mixture, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or chives. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt can substitute for cream cheese. Ensure cucumbers are firm for better structure. You can also use any leftover cucumber pulp in salads or smoothies, minimizing waste.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed cucumber cups make a delightful appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with Lemon Caesar Salad for a refreshing meal. For a complete vegetarian spread, consider serving alongside Herb Potatoes or Pan-Fried Eggplant. They also work well as part of a Mediterranean-themed platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed cucumber cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crispness over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as cucumbers do not thaw well. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cucumber Cups contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed cucumber cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber cups and the filling separately a few hours in advance. Just assemble them right before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If made too early, the filling may cause the cucumbers to become soggy.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese are great alternatives to cream cheese. They provide a creamy texture while offering a lighter taste. If you want a vegan option, consider using cashew cream or a tofu-based spread.
How can I add more flavor to the filling?
You can enhance the filling by adding garlic powder, chopped herbs, or even diced olives for a briny kick. A splash of hot sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth to the cream cheese mixture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).