Introduction
Cucumber Cups with Herbed Greek Yogurt Dip are a refreshing, bite-sized appetizer that offers a creamy-crunchy contrast perfect for balancing rich holiday dishes. With their crisp cucumber shells and savory yogurt filling, these cups bring a burst of cool, herby flavor to your table. Ideal for gatherings, they are light, elegant, and delightfully satisfying.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Greek yogurt has long been a staple in Mediterranean diets, celebrated for its thick texture and tangy flavor. Combining it with fresh herbs and cucumber reflects the timeless mezze tradition—a spread of small dishes served as appetizers. This recipe echoes the elegance of Mediterranean simplicity: nourishing, wholesome, and full of life. The cucumber cup presentation adds a modern twist to a traditional flavor pairing.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The coolness of the cucumber paired with the tangy richness of Greek yogurt creates a well-balanced flavor base. Fresh herbs like dill and mint add brightness, while a touch of garlic deepens the savoriness. Lemon zest lifts the dip with citrusy notes, and a pinch of smoked paprika on top lends a visual and aromatic pop. Each bite is an ode to freshness.
Cooking Techniques
No stove or oven needed here—just a little knife work and a spoon. Hollowing out cucumber slices turns them into edible vessels, and mixing the dip is as easy as stirring. The key is uniformity and care: clean edges on your cucumber cups, and a creamy, well-blended dip make the final presentation pop.
Cucumber Cups with Herbed Greek Yogurt Dip
Description
Cucumber Cups with Herbed Greek Yogurt Dip are a crunchy, cooling appetizer ideal for parties and potlucks. Each bite delivers creamy, herbaceous flavor wrapped in a fresh cucumber shell.
Ingredients for Cucumber Cups with Herbed Greek Yogurt Dip
For the Cucumber Cups
For the Herbed Yogurt Dip
For Garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Cucumber Cups
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Shape the Cucumbers
Slice cucumbers into thick rounds and use a melon baller or teaspoon to carefully scoop out the centers, creating a small well in each round.
Leave the bottom intact to hold the dip. Don't scoop too deep to maintain structure. -
Draw Out the Moisture
Sprinkle each cup lightly with salt and let sit upside down on a paper towel for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
This step helps the cups stay crisp and prevents watering down the dip.
Making the Herbed Yogurt Dip
-
Combine the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, dill, mint, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated garlic. Mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill the dip for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before filling.
Assembling the Cucumber Cups
-
Fill the Cucumber Cups
Pat the cucumber cups dry. Fill each cup with a spoonful of herbed yogurt dip.
Use a small piping bag for a neater presentation. -
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle smoked paprika over the filled cups and top with dill or mint leaves.
Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve for maximum crispness.
Note
- Choose cucumbers of similar width for uniform presentation.
- Use a melon baller for easier scooping and cleaner wells.
- Allow the yogurt dip to chill for 10-15 minutes for better flavor development.
- Adjust herbs to taste: parsley or chives also work well.
- If prepping ahead, store components separately to prevent sogginess.
- These cups pair beautifully with sparkling drinks or citrusy cocktails.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the yogurt mix.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with labneh or sour cream for a twist.
