Hummus cucumber bites are a fun and healthy snack! They’re made by topping crunchy cucumber slices with creamy hummus. Simple and refreshing, these bites are perfect for any gathering.
I love how easy they are to make—you just slice and spread! They make a great addition to any party, and I secretly think they’re a hit because they look so fancy! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber is essential for these bites. Its crisp texture adds a refreshing crunch. If you need a substitution, zucchini could work in a pinch, although it’s softer. For a fun twist, try mini cucumbers for bite-sized pieces.
Hummus: This creamy base can be store-bought or homemade. I usually opt for homemade, as it’s easy and customizable. If you don’t have hummus, try using Greek yogurt mixed with tahini for a different flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring a lovely sweetness and a pop of color. If you’re looking for alternatives, diced bell peppers or olives can offer a different taste while still being colorful. Use whatever is fresh or on hand!
Jalapeño: Adding a slice gives a spicy kick! If you’re wary of spice, leave it out or replace it with a slice of bell pepper for crunchy sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Hummus Spread on Cucumber?
Spreading hummus evenly can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use a small spoon or a piping bag for neat dollops. A piping bag is a great tool, but a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off works too!
- Don’t overload; about 1 tablespoon per cucumber slice is perfect.
- For added flair, swirl the hummus gently with the spoon for a decorative touch.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect look and taste. Enjoy making your hummus cucumber bites deliciously crisp and appetizing!
How to Make Hummus Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or hemp seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute snacks or gatherings. Just slice, spread, top, and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly. Cut it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If you want to make them look a bit fancier, you can peel stripes off the cucumber using a vegetable peeler. This adds a nice touch!
2. Dry the Slices:
Using a paper towel, pat the cucumber slices dry. This step is important so that the hummus sticks well and doesn’t slide off!
3. Add the Hummus:
Now for the fun part! Take a small spoon or a piping bag and place or pipe about 1 tablespoon of hummus onto each cucumber slice. Smooth the top lightly with your spoon for a nice look.
4. Top with Tomatoes or Jalapeño:
Add a half of a cherry tomato or a slice of jalapeño on top of the hummus on each cucumber slice. This will give them a lovely color and flavor!
5. Garnish:
Sprinkle each of the bites with chopped parsley or cilantro and a few sesame or hemp seeds if you’d like. A light dusting of smoked paprika or chili powder adds a wonderful visual appeal!
6. Season to Taste:
Lightly season with salt if desired. This will enhance all the flavors and make them even tastier.
7. Serve:
Arrange your beautiful hummus cucumber bites on a serving platter and enjoy them fresh! You can also chill them in the fridge for a bit before serving to keep them extra crisp.
These bites are not just a feast for the eyes but are packed with flavor. Enjoy your time making and sharing them!
Can I Substitute the Cucumber with Another Vegetable?
Yes! You can use celery sticks or bell pepper strips as a base instead of cucumber. They both provide a nice crunch and a different flavor profile, keeping the fun of the appetizer alive!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumber may release moisture, so it’s best to serve them fresh. If they wilt, the flavor will still be good!
Can I Use Homemade Hummus?
Absolutely! Homemade hummus not only tastes fantastic but allows you to customize flavors. You can add ingredients like roasted garlic, roasted red peppers, or herbs to make it your own!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Get creative with toppings! You can use sliced olives, feta cheese crumbles, or even sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also be excellent additions!