Cucumber Hummus Bites

I still remember the first time I made these Cucumber Hummus Bites. It was for a last-minute family get-together, and panic was setting in. I needed something fast, relatively healthy, and appealing to both adults and kids. Scouring the fridge, I found a tub of hummus, a large English cucumber, and a few pantry staples. Inspiration struck! Within fifteen minutes, I had a platter of these vibrant green bites, dotted with creamy hummus and a sprinkle of paprika. They vanished almost instantly! My kids, who sometimes turn their noses up at plain cucumbers, adored the combination. My sister-in-law asked for the “recipe” (it felt almost too simple to call it that!), and they’ve been a staple in our appetizer rotation ever since. They are ridiculously easy, refreshingly crisp, surprisingly satisfying, and look far more elegant than the minimal effort suggests. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack, a potluck contribution, or a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, these little bites never fail to impress. They are the perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can create something truly delicious and memorable.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these refreshing and simple bites:

• 1 Large English Cucumber (or 2-3 Persian Cucumbers): Provides the crisp, cool, and sturdy base for our bites. English cucumbers are preferred for their thinner skin, minimal seeds, and uniform diameter, making slicing easy. Persian cucumbers are a great alternative, offering a similar profile but smaller size.
• 1 cup Creamy Hummus (Store-bought or Homemade): The star flavor component, adding a creamy texture and savory, garlicky notes. Choose your favorite flavor – classic, roasted garlic, roasted red pepper, or even spicy jalapeño hummus works wonderfully. The quality of the hummus significantly impacts the final taste.
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Optional, for drizzling): Adds a touch of richness, fruity flavor, and makes the bites glisten beautifully. A good quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (Sweet or Smoked): Provides a pop of color and a subtle hint of smokiness or sweetness, depending on the type you choose. Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth.
• Fresh Dill or Parsley (Optional, for garnish): Finely chopped fresh herbs add another layer of freshness and visual appeal. Dill pairs exceptionally well with cucumber and hummus.
• Pinch of Salt and Black Pepper (Optional, to taste): To enhance the flavors, especially if your hummus is mildly seasoned or if you want to season the cucumber slices directly.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious Cucumber Hummus Bites:

1. Prepare the Cucumber: Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it completely dry with paper towels – this is crucial to prevent the hummus from sliding off or becoming watery. Trim off both ends of the cucumber.
2. Slice the Cucumber: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity, cut the cucumber crosswise into thick rounds, about 1/3 to 1/2 inch (approx. 1 cm) thick. Thicker slices provide a sturdier base and a more satisfying crunch. Aim for consistent thickness so they look neat on the platter. Discard the very end pieces or save them for snacking.
3. Arrange the Slices: Lay the cucumber slices flat in a single layer on a large platter, serving tray, or cutting board. If desired, you can lightly sprinkle the cucumber slices with a tiny pinch of salt and pepper at this stage, but be mindful of the saltiness of your hummus.
4. Top with Hummus: Carefully spoon or pipe a dollop of hummus onto the center of each cucumber slice. You can use two small spoons for a rustic look, a small cookie scoop for uniform portions, or a piping bag (with or without a decorative tip) for a more elegant presentation. Aim for about 1-2 teaspoons of hummus per slice, ensuring it doesn’t overflow too much.
5. Add Garnishes: If using, drizzle a very small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the hummus-topped bites. Sprinkle lightly with paprika for color and flavor. Finally, garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve Immediately: Arrange the finished Cucumber Hummus Bites on your serving platter and serve immediately for the best crisp texture. If making slightly ahead, cover loosely and refrigerate (see tips below).

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings (depending on cucumber size and slice thickness)
• Calories per serving (approximate): 100-150 calories (based on 6 servings, using standard hummus)
• Fiber: A good source of dietary fiber, primarily from the hummus (chickpeas) and cucumber skin, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, mainly from the tahini in the hummus and the optional olive oil drizzle.
• Plant-Based Protein: Offers a moderate amount of plant-based protein from the chickpeas in the hummus, contributing to fullness.
• Low Carbohydrate: Relatively low in carbohydrates compared to traditional crackers or bread-based appetizers, making it a good choice for low-carb eating plans.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Provides various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K and hydration from the cucumber, and iron and folate from the chickpeas.

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific hummus used, slice thickness, amount of hummus per slice, and optional additions.)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 10-15 minutes. This is a wonderfully quick recipe, requiring no cooking. Most of the time is spent slicing the cucumber and assembling the bites, making it ideal for last-minute preparations or a speedy, healthy snack.

How to Serve

Cucumber Hummus Bites are incredibly versatile. Here are some fantastic ways to serve them:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Arrange neatly on a chilled platter for parties, potlucks, or pre-dinner snacks.
  • Include them as part of a larger mezze platter alongside olives, feta cheese, pita bread, dolmades, and other dips.
  • Serve them before a Mediterranean-themed dinner.
• For Healthy Snacking:
  • Keep a batch in the fridge (assembled just before eating is best) for a quick, refreshing, and guilt-free afternoon snack.
  • Pack the components separately (sliced cucumbers and a container of hummus) in a lunchbox for a healthy work or school snack – assemble just before eating to maintain crispness.
• As a Light Lunch:
  • Pair a generous portion of these bites with a small green salad, a hard-boiled egg, or a handful of nuts for a light, satisfying, and low-carb lunch.
• Party Food Presentation:
  • Use a piping bag with a star tip to apply the hummus for a fancier look.
  • Alternate rows of bites made with different flavored hummus (e.g., classic, red pepper, beet) for visual appeal.
  • Garnish creatively with various toppings (see tips below) for added color and texture.
  • Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves or alongside colourful cherry tomatoes.
• For Specific Diets:
  • Highlight them as a naturally gluten-free and often vegan (check hummus ingredients) option on your menu.
  • Emphasize their low-carb nature for guests following specific dietary plans.

Serving Temperature: These bites are best served chilled or at cool room temperature. The coolness enhances the refreshing quality of the cucumber.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Drinks: Crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), sparkling water with lemon or cucumber slices, iced green tea, or light lager.
• Other Foods: Olives, feta cheese cubes, cherry tomato skewers, grilled halloumi, other vegetable crudités, pita chips (for those not strictly low-carb), light salads.

Additional Tips

Make your Cucumber Hummus Bites even better with these handy tips:

1. Choose the Right Cucumber: English (hothouse) cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin, fewer seeds, and consistent diameter. Persian cucumbers are also excellent. Avoid standard field cucumbers if possible, as their thicker skin and larger seeds can be less pleasant, and they tend to release more water. If using field cucumbers, consider peeling them and scooping out the seeds.
2. Dry Cucumbers Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispness and adherence! After washing, pat the cucumber completely dry. Pat the slices dry again gently with a paper towel just before adding the hummus, especially if they’ve been sitting for a few minutes. This prevents the hummus from sliding off and stops the bites from becoming soggy quickly.
3. Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer (carefully!) or a very sharp knife to ensure your cucumber slices are consistently thick (around 1/3 to 1/2 inch). This not only looks more professional but also ensures an even cucumber-to-hummus ratio in every bite.
4. Hummus Consistency Matters: Very oily or runny hummus might slide off easily. If your hummus seems too thin, you can try stirring it well or even draining off excess oil from the top (you can reserve it for drizzling). A thicker, creamier hummus works best. If making homemade hummus, make it slightly thicker than usual.
5. Chill Before Serving (Briefly): While best served immediately after assembly, you can assemble them up to 30 minutes ahead. Arrange them on the serving platter, cover loosely with plastic wrap (try not to let the wrap touch the hummus directly), and refrigerate. This brief chill helps meld the flavors slightly and keeps the cucumber crisp and cool. Avoid chilling for too long, as the cucumber will eventually release water.
6. Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t stop at paprika! Elevate your bites with various toppings:
   • Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
   • Kalamata olive slices or tapenade
   • Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained well)
   • Toasted sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds (pepitas), or sunflower seeds
   • Everything Bagel seasoning
   • A tiny sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
   • Finely chopped red onion or chives
   • A small, halved cherry tomato
   • Za’atar spice blend
7. Easy Hummus Application: For a cleaner, faster, and more decorative application, use a piping bag. You can use a large round tip, a star tip, or simply snip the corner off a sturdy zip-top bag. A small ice cream or cookie scoop also works well for consistent portions.
8. Flavorful Hummus Foundation: The base flavor starts with the hummus. Don’t be afraid to use flavored hummus varieties! Roasted Red Pepper, Roasted Garlic, Spinach Artichoke, Spicy Jalapeño, Beetroot, or Lemon Herb hummus all create distinctly different and delicious bites. You could even offer an assortment using different hummus types.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make Cucumber Hummus Bites ahead of time?

• It’s best to serve them shortly after assembly (within 30 minutes) for optimal crispness. Cucumbers naturally release water over time, which can make the bites soggy and the hummus watery if left for too long. For longer make-ahead prep, you can slice the cucumbers and store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Store the hummus separately. Assemble just before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that the cucumbers will soften and release moisture, changing the texture. They’ll still be edible, but not as crisp and appealing as when fresh. It’s generally better to make only as many as you expect to eat.

3. Are Cucumber Hummus Bites Gluten-Free?

• Yes, naturally! Cucumbers and most traditional hummus recipes (chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil) are gluten-free. Always double-check the ingredients list if using store-bought hummus to ensure no gluten-containing additives were used, but it’s typically a safe choice for GF diets.

4. Are they Vegan?

• Usually, yes. Standard hummus ingredients are vegan. Cucumbers, olive oil, and spices are also vegan. Ensure your chosen store-bought hummus doesn’t contain any dairy (like yogurt, which is uncommon but possible in some variations) or honey. Homemade hummus made with traditional ingredients is fully vegan.

5. My cucumbers seem watery. How can I prevent soggy bites?

• Choose English or Persian cucumbers, which have lower water content. Pat the cucumber and the slices thoroughly dry. Use thicker cucumber slices (1/3 to 1/2 inch). Consider gently scooping out the very center part of the seeds with a small spoon (like a 1/4 teaspoon measuring spoon) to create a slight well – this removes the wateriest part and helps hold the hummus. Serve immediately after assembly.

6. Can I use something other than cucumber as the base?

• Absolutely! While cucumber provides that signature freshness and crunch, you can adapt this concept. Try using:
  • Thick slices of zucchini or summer squash (served raw)
  • Bell pepper squares (red, yellow, or orange)
  • Endive spears (shaped perfectly for scooping)
  • Thick slices of firm tomatoes (like Roma)
  • Small baked sweet potato rounds (cooled)
  • Gluten-free crackers or rice cakes

7. What are some other ways to flavor the hummus?

• Beyond store-bought flavors, you can easily customize plain hummus. Stir in:
  • Pesto
  • Finely chopped herbs (cilantro, mint, basil)
  • Sriracha or harissa paste for heat
  • Lemon zest for extra brightness
  • Finely minced garlic or roasted garlic paste
  • Spices like cumin, coriander, or curry powder

8. How many bites does this recipe typically make?

• A large English cucumber (typically 12-14 inches long) cut into 1/3 to 1/2-inch slices will yield approximately 24-36 bites. The exact number depends heavily on the cucumber’s length and diameter, and the thickness of your slices. One cup of hummus is usually sufficient for this amount. Adjust quantities based on your needs.

Print