Hummus and Cucumber Toast

Introduction:

There’s something magical about the simplicity of hummus and cucumber toast—it’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels effortlessly sophisticated but is so easy to throw together, making it perfect for everything from a quick breakfast to a light lunch or even a snack.

I first stumbled upon this combination when I was craving something fresh and healthy. I had a half-empty jar of hummus and a cucumber sitting in my fridge, and I thought, “Why not throw them together on some toast?” The result was an instant hit. The creamy hummus pairs perfectly with the crisp cucumber, while the toast adds just the right amount of crunch. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can adjust the toppings to your liking!

Since then, hummus and cucumber toast has become one of my go-to recipes, especially when I’m in a hurry. It’s one of those dishes that make me feel like I’m treating myself to something special, even on busy days. If you’ve never tried this combination, trust me—you’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to put together, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.
• Healthy and fresh: With cucumbers, hummus, and whole-grain toast, this dish is light but satisfying. It’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, so you’ll feel energized without feeling weighed down.
• Customizable: While the basic combo of hummus and cucumber is delicious on its own, you can add extra toppings like cherry tomatoes, avocado, or fresh herbs to make it your own.
• Delicious crunch and creaminess: The crunch of the toast and cucumber combined with the creamy hummus creates the perfect balance of textures.
• Vegetarian and gluten-free: This recipe is great for anyone following a vegetarian or gluten-free diet (just use gluten-free bread, of course).

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2 slices of toast (can easily be doubled or halved depending on how many you’re serving)
• Nutrition:
  • Calories per serving: 250
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fats: 12g

Ingredients:

To make this simple yet satisfying hummus and cucumber toast, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 slices of whole grain or your favorite gluten-free bread (Toasted for a bit of crunch)
• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons hummus (You can use store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Fresh herbs (optional, but I love adding a sprinkle of fresh dill, parsley, or mint)
• Salt and pepper to taste (I like to use a pinch of flaky sea salt)
• Lemon zest (optional, but adds a refreshing zing!)
• Optional toppings: Cherry tomatoes, radishes, avocado slices, or microgreens

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Hummus: The star of the dish! Hummus adds creaminess and a bit of a savory, garlicky flavor that complements the freshness of the cucumber. Whether you use classic hummus or a flavored variety (like roasted red pepper), it’s the key ingredient here.
• Cucumber: I love using cucumber because it adds such a refreshing crunch. Plus, cucumbers are naturally hydrating and low in calories—perfect for a light snack.
• Toast: You can’t go wrong with crispy, toasted bread. It adds the perfect base for all the toppings, and whole grain bread gives you that extra fiber boost.
• Olive oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil brings a richness to the toast that ties everything together. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference.
• Fresh herbs: Whether it’s a sprinkle of dill or some mint, fresh herbs brighten up the flavor and make it feel more like a gourmet treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Toast the Bread
Start by toasting your bread. You can use any type of bread you like, but I recommend a hearty whole-grain or sourdough bread for the best flavor and texture. Place the slices in a toaster or on a grill pan until golden brown and crispy. The crunch of the bread is going to be the perfect contrast to the smoothness of the hummus and the crispness of the cucumber.

Tip: If you’re using gluten-free bread, make sure it’s toasted long enough to get crispy, as gluten-free bread can sometimes be softer and less crunchy than traditional bread.

2. Slice the Cucumber
While your bread is toasting, grab a cucumber and slice it thinly. You can use a knife or a mandolin slicer if you want perfectly uniform slices. The cucumber should be sliced thin enough to sit nicely on top of the hummus but thick enough to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Tip: If the cucumber skin feels tough, feel free to peel it before slicing. Personally, I love the look of the skin, but it’s all about preference.

3. Assemble the Toast
Once your bread is toasted and your cucumber slices are ready, it’s time to assemble. Spread a generous tablespoon of hummus on each slice of toast. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly. You want the hummus to cover every inch of the bread so every bite is packed with flavor.

Tip: If you want a stronger hummus flavor, add an extra layer of hummus!

4. Add the Cucumber Slices
Next, layer the cucumber slices on top of the hummus. You can arrange them however you like—neatly in rows or a bit more casually for that rustic look. Be sure to cover the entire surface with cucumber slices to get a nice crunch in every bite.

5. Add Toppings
This is where the fun happens! You can add a variety of toppings to make the toast more exciting. I recommend a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness. If you like a bit of citrus, lemon zest adds a refreshing kick. Sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley to bring an herbal freshness to the dish. Finally, season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

6. Enjoy!
Now, grab a fork (or go in with your hands) and dig into this refreshing, crunchy, and creamy hummus and cucumber toast! It’s that simple. You’ve just made a light, healthy, and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy.

How to Serve:

This hummus and cucumber toast is already pretty perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to add a little something extra, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve as a snack: This toast makes an amazing afternoon snack when you’re feeling a little peckish.
• Pair with soup: It also pairs wonderfully with a light soup, like tomato or a chilled gazpacho.
• Add protein: If you’re looking to make this more filling, top the toast with a soft-boiled egg or some grilled chicken for a protein boost.
• Serve at a brunch: It’s a great addition to any brunch spread, alongside fruit, yogurt, or a big green salad.

Additional Tips:

To make sure your hummus and cucumber toast is always a hit, here are a few tips:

1. Use fresh hummus: Homemade hummus is always best if you have the time to make it, but store-bought hummus works just as well. Just be sure to choose one that’s smooth and creamy for the best texture.
2. Toast it well: Don’t skimp on the toast! A good crisp is essential for the perfect crunch.
3. Try different bread: If you want to mix things up, try using a gluten-free bread or a thick slice of sourdough for extra flavor.
4. Customize toppings: You can add anything from roasted red peppers to sliced avocado, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese to add a salty kick.
5. Add a squeeze of lemon: A little lemon juice on top will bring all the flavors together, making it feel even fresher!

Recipe Variations:

Here are a few ways you can customize this hummus and cucumber toast to suit your tastes:

1. Add protein: For a more filling option, add a protein topping like grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or even smoked salmon.
2. Vegan Version: If you’re vegan, make sure to choose a dairy-free hummus and enjoy all the same fresh and creamy flavors!
3. Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of chili pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the top for a little heat.
4. Add Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cucumber and hummus.

Freezing and Storage:

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftover hummus or cucumber, here’s how to store them:

• Hummus: Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. If it’s homemade, use it within a few days for the best taste.
• Cucumbers: Cucumber slices can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. However, they do tend to lose their crunch after a while, so it’s best to use them right away for optimal texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use store-bought hummus?
Yes! Store-bought hummus works perfectly for this recipe. Choose a smooth and creamy variety for the best texture. However, if you have the time and want to elevate the flavor, making your own hummus at home can add a personal touch.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While whole grain or sourdough is recommended for its hearty texture and flavor, you can use any type of bread you prefer. Gluten-free bread is a great option if you’re following a gluten-free diet. Try rye, ciabatta, or even a nice baguette for a different twist.

3. How do I store leftover cucumber slices?
Cucumbers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, they will lose their crispness over time, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh. If you’re preparing ahead, keep the cucumbers whole and slice them just before serving for the best crunch.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
For the best results, hummus and cucumber toast is best made fresh. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time—slice the cucumbers and store them in the fridge, and have the hummus ready to go. Toast the bread just before serving to maintain that crispy texture.

5. Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Adding a protein boost is easy. You can top your toast with a hard-boiled egg, grilled chicken, or even some smoked salmon for a more filling meal. This is perfect for making the dish more substantial if you need extra energy for your day.

Print

Conclusion:

Hummus and cucumber toast is the perfect example of how simplicity can lead to something truly satisfying. Whether you’re in need of a quick snack, a light lunch, or something healthy to start your day, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s versatile, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, all while being incredibly easy to prepare.

The creamy hummus combined with the crisp, refreshing cucumber on a toasted slice of your favorite bread creates a balance of textures that’s both satisfying and invigorating. Add a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of seasoning, and you’ve got a toast that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

With endless options for customization, you can make this dish your own. Experiment with different toppings, bread types, or even spices, and you’ll always have a new variation to look forward to. Whether you keep it classic or mix it up with some extra protein, hummus and cucumber toast is bound to become one of your go-to recipes.