Veggie hummus cucumber boats are like a mini oasis on your plate—refreshing, vibrant, and just a little quirky. I stumbled upon this simple treasure while trying to jazz up my lunch routine and, oh boy, it’s a game-changer. Imagine the crunch of a fresh cucumber mingling with creamy hummus, topped with a delightful sprinkle of colorful veggies; it’s like a little bit of summer in every bite.
Steps
- Slice a cucumber down the middle so you have two long halves. Use a metal measuring spoon to remove the seeds from the center of each half.
- Spread 3 tablespoons of hummus into the hollowed-out section of each cucumber half, creating a base layer.
- Distribute shredded carrots, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion evenly on top of the hummus in each cucumber half.
- Add slices of avocado and a handful of sprouts to the vegetable-topped cucumber.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the filled cucumber boats. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, halved lengthwise
- 6 tablespoons hummus
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup sprouts
- 1/4 cup diced tomato
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 3 ounces avocado, sliced (equivalent to half a medium-sized Haas avocado)
- Juice from a wedge of fresh lemon
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 366 kcal | Carbohydrates: 38 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 3 g | Sodium: 357 mg | Fiber: 16 g | Sugar: 2 g
FAQ
- Can I use other vegetables instead of cucumber for the base?
- Yes, you can use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers as the base to create similar “boats” for your fillings.
- What can I use as an alternative to hummus?
- If you’re not a fan of hummus, you can fill the cucumber boats with other spreads like guacamole, tzatziki, or a light cream cheese spread.
- Are these cucumber boats suitable for people on a low-sodium diet?
- Absolutely, these cucumber boats are a great option for those on a low-sodium diet, especially since they replace traditional bread, which can be high in sodium.
- How can I make this recipe more filling?
- To make the cucumber boats more filling, consider adding protein-rich toppings like grilled chicken strips, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Can I prepare these cucumber boats in advance?
- While you can prepare the ingredients in advance, it’s best to assemble the cucumber boats just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and crisp.
Tips
- Use a metal measuring spoon to easily scoop out the seeds from the cucumber, creating a perfect cavity for the hummus and toppings.
- Experiment with different fillings to customize your cucumber boats, such as various salads or cold cuts, for a versatile and satisfying meal.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top to enhance the flavors and add a refreshing zing to your cucumber boats.
- Adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and pepper to taste, ensuring your cucumber boats are perfectly seasoned to your preference.
Equipment
- Metal measuring spoon (for scooping out the cucumber seeds)
