Stuffed Cucumbers

Stuffed cucumbers are a wonderful blend of fresh, crunchy and creamy textures, making them a great summertime cucumber recipe. This recipe combines cool, crisp cucumber boats with a savory cream cheese filling seasoned with vegetables and spices. Stuffed cucumbers are similar to stuffed tomatoes or stuffed peppers but with a cool twist.

Ingredients for Stuffed Cucumbers

• Cucumber: Halved and seeded cucumbers are the vessels for the filling, providing a fresh, crunchy base. Its mild, refreshing flavor is an excellent counterpart to the rich cream cheese filling.
• Salt: Salt draws out excess moisture from the cucumber, helping it maintain a firm texture while enhancing its flavor. This step ensures the cucumber doesn’t get too watery when stuffed.
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a creamy, rich filling for the cucumbers. It helps hold the other ingredients together for a smooth, spreadable texture.
• Green pepper: Chopped green pepper adds a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the filling. It also brings a pop of color to the stuffing.
• Onion: Chopped onion introduces a mild sharpness to balance the cream cheese and green pepper. It enhances the savory flavor of the filling without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Worcestershire: A small amount of Worcestershire sauce adds an umami depth to the filling.
• Pepper: A dash of pepper gives the filling a subtle heat.
• Paprika: Paprika adds a dash of color and introduces a mild, smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• French dressing: Drizzle French salad dressing over the stuffed cucumbers before serving for an extra layer of tangy sweetness.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber

Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center for the filling. Sprinkle the hollowed cucumber halves with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.

Step 2: Make the filling

In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and smooth. Stir in a few tablespoons of drained cucumber pulp.

Step 3: Stuff the cucumbers

Using a spoon, fill the hollowed-out cucumber halves with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, ensuring that the cucumber is fully stuffed. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Before serving, drizzle it with optional French salad dressing and garnish it with a sprinkle of paprika for extra color.

Stuffed Cucumber Recipe Variations

• Crabby cucumbers: Add crabmeat to the filling for a taste of the sea and a little protein.
• Hummus boats: For a dairy-free version, stuff the cucumbers with hummus, which offers the dish a different flavor profile.
• Tzatziki boats: Swap out the cream cheese for tzatziki, a strained herbed yogurt.

How to Store Stuffed Cucumbers

Stuffed cucumbers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator will hold for up to two days. Be sure to store them in a single layer to prevent the filling from getting squished.

Can you freeze stuffed cucumbers?

Due to cucumbers’ high water content, it’s best not to freeze them. Freezing can cause the cucumbers to become too watery and lose their crispness.

Can you make stuffed cucumbers ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply hollow out the cucumbers, stuff them with the filling and serve fresh.

Stuffed Cucumbers Recipe Tips

Can I use a different vegetable to stuff?

You can substitute cucumbers with other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. These alternatives also offer a sturdy base for the creamy filling.

Can I make stuffed cucumbers ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling a day ahead, but to maintain their crispness, it’s best to stuff the cucumbers just before serving.

What can I serve with stuffed cucumbers?

Stuffed cucumbers pair well with fresh salads, crackers or other light appetizers such as deviled eggs or veggie platters.