As the temperature rises, our desire for cool and refreshing foods also increases. One vegetable that perfectly fits this bill is cucumber! With its high water content and mild flavor, cucumber is a perfect ingredient for light and healthy recipes. From salads to dips, soups to smoothies, cucumbers can be used in countless ways to add freshness and crunch to any dish.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 refreshing healthy cucumber recipes that will quench your thirst for something new and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a light and easy snack or a satisfying meal, our collection of cucumber recipes has got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of cucumbers!
Cucumber and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the coolness of cucumbers with the richness of avocados, perfect for hot days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocado and lime juice until smooth.
3. Add the avocado mixture to the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek Yogurt Cucumber Dip
This light and tangy dip is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a cooling snack. With the creaminess of Greek yogurt, the crunch of cucumber, and a hint of garlic, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Spicy Cucumber Slices with Chili Lime
A refreshing twist on traditional cucumber slices, this recipe adds a kick of heat and a burst of citrus flavor to make for a perfect appetizer or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this flavorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe cucumbers
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chili lime seasoning (such as El Yucateco or homemade blend)
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and chili lime seasoning until well combined.
3. Place the cucumber slices on a plate or platter.
4. Drizzle the yogurt-chili mixture over the cucumbers, making sure each slice is coated.
5. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Squeeze the lime juice over the top of the cucumbers for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber Mint Infused Water
Stay hydrated and revitalize your senses with this simple and refreshing recipe. Cucumber mint infused water is perfect for hot summer days, post-workout hydration, or a revitalizing pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 liter water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced cucumber and fresh mint leaves.
2. Add the liter of water to the pitcher.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, with or without ice cubes.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
– Infusion time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 35 minutes
Enjoy your refreshing and rejuvenating Cucumber Mint Infused Water!
Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the nutty taste of sesame, perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish to your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the cucumbers and toss again to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (if using red pepper flakes).
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cool Cucumber Gazpacho
Cool Cucumber Gazpacho: A Refreshing Summer Soup
Beat the heat with this creamy and revitalizing soup that combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the tanginess of gazpacho. Perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a summer staple.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumbers, bell peppers, onion, parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve cold with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Stuffed Cucumber Boats with Hummus
These cucumber boats are a perfect summer snack or appetizer, filled with creamy hummus and crunchy veggies. Enjoy the refreshing combination of cool cucumbers and savory hummus.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers
– 1 cup hummus
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the insides to create a boat shape.
2. In a bowl, mix together the hummus, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Stuff each cucumber boat with about 2-3 tablespoons of the hummus mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Cucumber and Tomato Quinoa Salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for hot summer days. With the combination of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, you’ll be enjoying a nutritious and delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber slices, and tomato dice.
2. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Pickled Cucumber Slices with Dill
Add a tangy twist to your snacks and sandwiches with these refreshing pickled cucumber slices, infused with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Kirby cucumbers
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1/2 inch (1 cm) headspace.
5. Stir in chopped fresh dill. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber and Feta Cheese Bites
A refreshing twist on traditional appetizers, these bite-sized treats combine the cooling flavors of cucumber and feta cheese with a crispy coating. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and feta cheese.
3. Dip each cucumber slice into the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb-feta mixture.
4. Place coated cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chilled Cucumber Soup with Yogurt
Beat the heat with this refreshing and light soup that’s perfect for a summer evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the tanginess of yogurt, making it a delightful and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fresh cucumbers
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the cucumbers and chop them into small pieces.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the cucumber chunks until smooth.
3. Add the yogurt, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the blender.
4. Blend until well combined and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is best served chilled.
Enjoy your refreshing Chilled Cucumber Soup with Yogurt!
Cucumber and Radish Salad
This light and crunchy salad is perfect for a hot summer day. It’s an easy and healthy side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber and radish slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumber-radish mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Cucumber Peanut Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the cooling properties of cucumber with the creamy richness of peanut sauce, perfect for hot summer days or as a light and crunchy accompaniment to your favorite Thai dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cucumber and Smoked Salmon Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these refreshing rolls, perfect for a light lunch or as a delightful appetizer. The creamy cream cheese and tangy smoked salmon pair beautifully with the crunchy cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumber slices
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas (or rice paper wraps)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay a tortilla flat and spread about 1/2 tbsp of the cream cheese mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
3. Arrange 2-3 cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese.
4. Add 1-2 tbsp of flaked smoked salmon on top of the cucumber.
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to form a roll, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None (assemble and serve)
Lemon Garlic Cucumber Noodles
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, this Lemon Garlic Cucumber Noodles recipe combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized cucumbers
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the cucumbers into noodle-like strands.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Add the cucumber noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cucumber and Mango Salsa
This sweet and tangy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. It’s a great way to add some extra flavor and freshness to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Herbed Cucumber and Chickpea Salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for hot summer days. The combination of cool cucumbers, creamy chickpeas, and fragrant herbs makes it a great accompaniment to any meal or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, chickpeas, parsley, dill, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber and Pineapple Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie is perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year. With the cooling effect of cucumber, sweetness of pineapple, and tanginess of lime, this recipe is a winner!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, chunks
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pineapple chunks, cucumber, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add lime juice and blend again until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frothy.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, perfect for hot days or as a light accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let the glaze cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
3. Meanwhile, arrange cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
4. Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the cucumbers.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped herbs (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes time for glaze to cook)
Cucumber and Edamame Seaweed Wrap
This refreshing wrap combines the crunch of cucumber, the sweetness of edamame, and the nutty flavor of seaweed, all wrapped up in a convenient and healthy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed (dried seaweed sheets)
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado or sprouts for added creaminess
Instructions:
1. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface.
2. Spread the hummus evenly over the seaweed, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Arrange the cucumber slices and edamame along the center of the wrap.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce to taste.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these 20 refreshing and healthy cucumber recipes! From classic salads like Cucumber and Avocado Salad to creative dips like Greek Yogurt Cucumber Dip, there’s something for everyone. Try Spicy Cucumber Slices with Chili Lime or Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad for a flavorful twist. Or, cool off with Cucumber Mint Infused Water or Chilled Cucumber Soup with Yogurt. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with cucumbers again! Treat your taste buds to these delicious and nutritious recipes.
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