The humble cucumber is often overlooked as a simple salad topping, but it’s so much more than that. With its mild flavor and refreshing crunch, cucumbers can elevate a variety of dishes from appetizers to main courses. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative ways to use cucumbers beyond the classic salad. From sweet treats like cucumber and avocado sushi rolls to savory bites like grilled cucumber with garlic butter, we’ll show you just how versatile this summer staple really is.
Read on to discover new favorite recipes that will keep you cool and refreshed all season long!
Cucumber and cream cheese tea sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these elegant and flavorful sandwiches. The perfect combination of cool cucumber, tangy cream cheese, and soft bread will leave your guests delighted.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white or whole wheat bread
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange 1-2 cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top (cream cheese side down).
6. Cut off the crusts and cut into desired shapes or sizes.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembled)
Spicy cucumber kimchi
Add a burst of flavor and heat to your meals with this refreshing Spicy Cucumber Kimchi recipe. This spicy and sour condiment is perfect for topping tacos, noodles, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber strips, chili flakes, garlic, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.
2. Mix well to coat the cucumbers evenly with the seasoning mixture.
3. Add the water and mix until the cucumbers are well coated and slightly soft.
4. Transfer the kimchi to an airtight container and let it ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours or refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 days (depending on fermentation time)
Cucumber and avocado sushi rolls
Experience the refreshing combination of cool cucumber and creamy avocado wrapped in tender sushi rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the avocado and cucumber into thin slices.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place an avocado slice in the middle of the rice, followed by a cucumber slice.
5. Roll the sushi using a gentle pressure, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces. Serve with soy sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Grilled cucumber with garlic butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of grilled cucumbers with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the cucumber slices with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Place the cucumber slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and are slightly tender.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cucumber and mint gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing soup that combines the cooling flavors of cucumber, mint, and tomato. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumbers, mint leaves, tomatoes, red bell pepper, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil in small increments as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with lemon juice and more salt if necessary.
4. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Stuffed cucumber boats with tuna salad
These bite-sized cucumber boats are perfect for hot summer days, filled with a creamy tuna salad that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers
– 1/2 cup canned tuna (drained)
– 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers into 1-inch thick slices, removing seeds and excess moisture.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, and parsley until smooth.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of tuna salad onto each cucumber slice, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the cucumber slices in half to form “boats” and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Cucumber and yogurt tzatziki sauce
This classic Greek condiment is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5-7 minutes
– Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Pickled cucumber spears with dill
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these crunchy and tangy pickled cucumber spears infused with the bright taste of dill. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumber spears
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon (15g) salt
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill weed
– 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low; add dill weed and black peppercorns. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack cucumber spears into a clean glass jar or container with tight-fitting lid. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) headspace.
4. Let cool to room temperature; cover and refrigerate. Chill for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes preparation time, plus chilling
Cucumber and lime agua fresca
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing drink, perfect for warm weather. This agua fresca is a simple yet flavorful blend of cucumber, lime juice, and sparkling water.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup sparkling water
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cucumber slices and lime juice. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the cold water and stir well to combine.
4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusion time)
Cucumber and feta stuffed crescent rolls
Elevate your snack game with these refreshing and savory crescent rolls, packed with the flavors of cucumber and feta.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-10 pieces)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the crescent dough according to package instructions.
3. Top each piece of dough with a slice of cucumber, a sprinkle of feta cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked cucumber chips with sea salt
Transform plain cucumbers into crispy, flavorful chips perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1/4 cup sea salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/16 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, toss the cucumber slices with sea salt and olive oil until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the cucumber slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Tips:
– To enhance flavor, sprinkle additional sea salt over the chips after baking.
– Store leftover chips in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cucumber and coconut curry soup
Beat the heat with this unique and flavorful soup that combines the cooling properties of cucumber with the rich creaminess of coconut milk. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped cucumber, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cucumber and hummus wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the coolness of cucumber with the creaminess of hummus.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup classic hummus
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a surface.
2. Spread 2 tablespoons of hummus down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at both ends.
3. Arrange 2-3 slices of cucumber on top of the hummus.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to form a neat package.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Stir-fried cucumber with garlic and chili
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a hot summer day when you need a cooling snack or side dish. The combination of crunchy cucumber, pungent garlic, and spicy chili flakes will awaken your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized cucumbers, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Add the crushed chili flakes (or diced red chilies) and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cucumber and melon smoothie
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing smoothie, perfect for a hot summer day. This unique combination of cucumber and melon will quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe melon (such as cantaloupe or honeydew), cubed
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the melon, cucumber, yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Cucumber and shrimp summer rolls
Refresh your senses with these light and refreshing summer rolls, packed with the sweetness of cucumbers and the succulence of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers (preferably gluten-free)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Cut the shrimp into small pieces and set aside.
3. Place a rice paper wrapper in front of you. Arrange 2-3 slices of cucumber, a few pieces of shrimp, and some chopped mint leaves in the center of the wrapper.
4. Drizzle the soy sauce mixture over the filling, then sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, followed by the sides and finally the top.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
Cooking Time: None, as these are served chilled or at room temperature.
Cucumber and goat cheese crostini
This simple yet elegant appetizer combines the coolness of cucumber with the creaminess of goat cheese, all on a crispy baguette slice. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light and refreshing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Top each crostini with a slice of cucumber, a dollop of goat cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped mint (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cucumber and basil infused vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing and flavorful infused vodka recipe, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a zesty twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter of neutral-tasting vodka (at least 40% ABV)
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container with a lid, combine the sliced cucumbers and fresh basil leaves.
2. Pour in the vodka, making sure that all the cucumber slices are covered.
3. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. After the infusion period, strain the vodka through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. If desired, add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Store the infused vodka in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply let it infuse in the fridge for 24 hours or more.
Summary
Cool off with these 18 refreshing cucumber recipes that go beyond the classic salad. From tea sandwiches to sushi rolls, grilled snacks to soups, and even infused vodka, cucumbers can add crunch, flavor, and hydration to a variety of dishes. Discover unique combinations like spicy kimchi, creamy tzatziki sauce, and pickled spears, as well as sweet treats like cucumber-lime agua fresca and melon smoothie. Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing and innovative recipes!