**Cucumber and Hummus Boats: A Refreshing and Nutritious Appetizer**
Cucumber and hummus boats are a delightful and healthy appetizer or snack that combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creamy richness of hummus. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a light and satisfying bite. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking. From classic hummus to variations infused with roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs, the possibilities are endless.
**Recipes Included:**
1. **Classic Cucumber and Hummus Boats:** This recipe features a classic hummus made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. The hummus is then spooned into cucumber boats and topped with a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. **Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Cucumber Boats:** For a smoky and flavorful twist, try this recipe that incorporates roasted red peppers into the hummus. The roasted red peppers add a vibrant color and a slightly sweet and smoky flavor to the dip.
3. **Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus Cucumber Boats:** If you love the tangy and savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is for you. The sun-dried tomatoes are rehydrated and blended with chickpeas, tahini, and spices to create a flavorful hummus that pairs perfectly with the crisp cucumbers.
4. **Fresh Herb Hummus Cucumber Boats:** This recipe adds a burst of freshness and flavor to the classic hummus by incorporating a variety of fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, and mint. The herbs add a vibrant green color and a delightful aroma to the dip.
5. **Spicy Harissa Hummus Cucumber Boats:** For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe incorporates harissa, a North African chili paste, into the hummus. The harissa adds a spicy kick and a smoky flavor that pairs well with the coolness of the cucumbers.
Each recipe provides step-by-step instructions and a list of ingredients, making it easy for home cooks of all skill levels to prepare this delicious and healthy appetizer. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing snack or a crowd-pleasing party platter, cucumber and hummus boats are sure to be a hit.
CUCUMBER AND HUMMUS BOATS
The refreshing combo of cucumber and hummus really brings this meatless meal together. It transports easily, making it a great option for weekday lunches. - Matthew Hass, Ellison Bay, Wisconsin
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Side Dishes
Time 30m
Yield 6 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Cook quinoa according to package directions. Transfer to a large bowl; cool slightly., Meanwhile, cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. Scoop out pulp, leaving a 1/4-in. shell. Add garbanzo beans, tomatoes, cheese and olives to quinoa. In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, honey, oil, garlic and pepper until blended. Pour over quinoa mixture; gently toss to coat. Spread about 2 tablespoons hummus inside each cucumber shell. Top each with about 1/3 cup quinoa mixture. Sprinkle with basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 482 calories, Fat 21g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 10mg cholesterol, Sodium 1026mg sodium, Carbohydrate 60g carbohydrate (17g sugars, Fiber 11g fiber), Protein 16g protein.
ROASTED RED PEPPER HUMMUS IN CUCUMBER CUPS
Provided by Giada De Laurentiis
Categories appetizer
Time 20m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- For the hummus: In a food processor, combine the peppers, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, salt, cayenne pepper if using, beans and garlic. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl if needed. Season with salt if needed. Transfer the hummus to a small bowl.
- Run the tines of a fork down the length of each cucumber several times, turning to make ridges about 1/8-inch deep in the skin all the way around. Cut cucumbers crosswise into 1-inch rounds, for a total of at least 12. Using the smaller end of a melon baller or a round measuring spoon, scoop out the center of each cucumber round to form a hollow. Use a small spoon to fill each cup with hummus, mounding slightly over the top. Tuck a small fresh parsley, cilantro or mint leaf into the side of the filling as a garnish.
- Arrange the cups on a platter and serve.
Tips:
- Choose fresh, firm cucumbers. This will ensure that your cucumber boats are sturdy and hold up well when filled with hummus.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cucumbers into even halves. This will make it easier to scoop out the seeds and pulp.
- Scoop out the seeds and pulp from the cucumbers using a spoon. Be careful not to scoop out too much of the cucumber, as this will make the boats too thin and flimsy.
- Fill the cucumber boats with your favorite hummus. You can use any type of hummus you like, but a classic hummus made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic is always a good choice.
- Top the hummus with your favorite toppings. Some popular toppings include chopped vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers; crumbled feta cheese; or chopped nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts.
- Serve the cucumber boats immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh, so don't make them ahead of time.
Conclusion:
Cucumber and hummus boats are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a light lunch or dinner. With so many different ways to customize them, you can easily find a combination that everyone will love.
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