Stuffed Cucumbers From France
A refreshing French appetizer featuring hollowed cucumber slices filled with a flavorful crab and vegetable mixture, topped with cherry tomato halves — perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scratch the sides of cucumbers lengthwise with a fork to make grooves.
- Cut each cucumber into 1-inch thick slices.
- Hollow each cucumber slice halfway through.
- Combine chopped radishes, grated carrots, finely chopped parsley, dill weed, and chopped crab meat in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise with sour cream.
- Add the mayonnaise mixture to the vegetable and crab mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each cucumber slice with the mixture.
- Place a cherry tomato half at the center of each stuffed cucumber slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in place of parsley. If you're short on time, pre-chopped veggies or even store-bought crab meat can be a great time-saver. Adjust the creaminess by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This dish is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Explore more seafood recipes for additional ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed cucumbers as a refreshing appetizer or a light lunch option. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or a light soup, such as gazpacho. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Baked Creole Fish for a delightful seafood experience. Garnish with extra dill or parsley for a vibrant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best to keep the stuffed cucumbers separate from the cherry tomatoes to prevent them from becoming soggy. For a quick refresh, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge, as the flavors meld even more after a short rest.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cucumbers From France contains roughly 142 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (83% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2387mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare the stuffed cucumbers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and hollow out the cucumbers, but it's best to stuff them just before serving to maintain their crispness. If stored separately, the components will stay fresh longer and you can assemble them quickly for a gathering.
What can I substitute for crab meat?
If you don't have crab meat or prefer a different flavor, consider using cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or even a vegan protein like chickpeas. Each alternative will offer a unique taste while still allowing you to enjoy the dish's texture and freshness.
Are there any alternatives to mayonnaise in this recipe?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and a little olive oil. For a dairy-free version, try using avocado or a vegan mayonnaise alternative that can provide a creamy texture without the dairy.
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).