Cucumber Cups

I made these little cucumber cups for the neighborhood park party that I went to a few weeks ago. I knew that I wanted to bring my curry chicken spread as one of my appetizers, but I was worried that the toasted bread I usually spread it on would end up getting soggy if it sat on a picnic table in the heat. I wanted something light, refreshing and bite size that could hold up in warm weather. At my husband's suggestion, I tried using a slice of cucumber as the base for the spread. I have had tuna tartare served this way at many weddings and parties and loved it. The only issue with using just a slice of cucumber is that the topping can easily slide off and you run the risk of wearing the appetizer instead of eating it. I decided to rectify this problem by using a melon baller to scoop out a well in the cucumber slice, being extra careful not to puncture all the way through. I ended up with the perfect little cup for about a tablespoon of filling. I suggest using a seedless English cucumber which is not waxed so there is no need to get rid of the peel. Leaving the peel intact makes for a sturdier and less watery cup as well. I recommend slicing the cucumber into rounds that are about 1/2-3/4" thick. Once you have "dug your wells" I would wipe the excess water off of each slice with a paper towel before you add your filling of choice. This is a great way to serve salsas, creamy dips, chicken, tuna or egg salad. It is cost effective (a cucumber costs much less than a box of crackers), healthy and looks pretty darn cute when arranged on a platter topped with colorful fillings. I highly suggest trying this with my curry chicken spread at your next get together. They went fast at the park party and many people asked me for the recipe.

Comments

[Eloise]

I love the idea of the cucumber cups. I am always trying to think of ways to have salads, tuna, egg etc. in some alternative form, other than sandwiches. This would be a great way to serve them and much lighter on the stomach too, as well as eliminating the gluten problem. Thanks Zoe, Great idea!

[Johnny Chefcoat]

CUCUMBER CUPS!