Ingredients
- Cucumber: 2 large cucumbers, preferably English cucumbers. These are longer, thinner, and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for slicing into bite-sized rounds and providing a crisp, hydrating base for the bites.
- Avocado: 2 ripe avocados. Avocados are the star of the show, providing a creamy, rich texture and a healthy dose of fats. Choose avocados that are just ripe – they should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened. Cream cheese adds a tangy and creamy element that binds the avocado mixture together and provides a delicious contrast to the cucumber and avocado. You can also use Neufchâtel cheese for a slightly lighter option or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, finely chopped. Dill brings a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the avocado and cucumber beautifully. Fresh dill is preferred for its vibrant taste, but in a pinch, you can use dried dill (use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill as it’s more concentrated).
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Lemon juice is crucial for preventing the avocado from browning and adds a zesty, refreshing tang that brightens up the overall flavor profile of the bites. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for its vibrant flavor.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt, or to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and is essential for seasoning the avocado mixture. Adjust the amount of salt to your preference.
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor to the avocado mixture. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- Optional Toppings: (Choose any combination you like to elevate your bites!)
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Adds a savory, crunchy, and flavorful topping with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion.
- Smoked Salmon: Thinly sliced smoked salmon adds a protein boost and a smoky, salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with avocado and dill.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the bites.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch.
- Chopped Chives or Green Onions: Adds a mild oniony flavor and a fresh green garnish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved or quartered cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst of sweetness and color.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Trim off the ends of each cucumber. Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers into rounds that are about ¼ to ½ inch thick. You want them thick enough to hold the avocado mixture without breaking but not so thick that they are difficult to eat in one bite. If you are using English cucumbers, you can leave the skin on. If using regular cucumbers with thicker skin, you might prefer to peel strips of skin off lengthwise for a more tender bite, or peel them completely.
- Prepare the Avocado Mixture: While you are preparing the cucumbers, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to mix with the avocado. In a medium-sized bowl, scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocados. Discard the pits and skins. Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl with the avocado. Using a fork, mash the avocado and cream cheese together until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. You can also use a whisk for a very smooth consistency if desired. Ensure there are no large lumps of avocado or cream cheese remaining.
- Flavor the Avocado Mixture: To the avocado and cream cheese mixture, add the finely chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference. Remember that the flavors will meld together as they sit, so don’t over-season initially.
- Assemble the Avocado Cucumber Bites: Now it’s time to assemble the bites. Take a cucumber slice and place a spoonful of the avocado mixture on top. Use a small spoon or a piping bag for a neater presentation. You can create a slightly mounded shape with the avocado mixture or spread it evenly across the cucumber slice. Repeat this process for all the remaining cucumber slices and avocado mixture. Try to distribute the avocado mixture evenly so you have enough for all the cucumber slices.
- Add Toppings (Optional but Recommended!): This is where you can get creative and customize your Avocado Cucumber Bites. Sprinkle your chosen toppings over the avocado mixture on each bite. Some popular and delicious options include everything bagel seasoning, smoked salmon, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, chopped chives or green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or crumbled feta cheese. You can choose one topping or a combination of toppings to create different flavor profiles and visual appeal.
- Chill and Serve: Once assembled and topped, the Avocado Cucumber Bites are best served immediately or chilled briefly in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling them slightly can help them firm up and makes them even more refreshing, especially if you are preparing them in advance. If chilling for longer than 30 minutes, it’s best to store the cucumber slices and avocado mixture separately and assemble just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming watery. Arrange the Avocado Cucumber Bites on a serving platter and enjoy! They are perfect as a healthy snack, a light lunch, or an elegant appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15
- Fiber: 4