I am not a huge football fan, but it’s exciting that the San Francisco 49ers are so close to the Super Bowl. The last game I remember watching was in high school when I was a cheerleader — that feels like forever ago. I usually spend Super Bowl Sunday studying, and this year the game falls on the day of my half marathon, so I definitely won’t be watching. To me, the holiday encourages hours of mindless snacking on greasy, unhealthy food, which is another reason I tend to avoid it. So what does this have to do with cucumber rolls? I thought these fresh, light bites would make a great, healthy appetizer for any Super Bowl gathering — or for any party where you want something refreshing and easy to eat.
Cucumber rolls are a simple, elegant alternative to the usual game-day fare. I discovered the idea while searching for at-home sushi-style rolls and decided to adapt the concept into a no-cook, quick appetizer. I filled mine with a mix of feta, yogurt, red bell pepper, red onion, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of pepper. The result was bright and flavorful. If you try this, consider using less red onion next time — it can overpower the other ingredients. If you have a mandoline slicer, slicing the cucumber into thin, even strips is quick and easy; a vegetable peeler can work too. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your tastes.
- 1 organic cucumber
- 1/3 cup light feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 1 1/2 tbsp finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 tsp finely chopped red onion
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh or dried dill
- Pinch of pepper
- Toothpicks
- In a small bowl, mash the feta and yogurt together with a fork until combined and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped red bell pepper, red onion, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of pepper. Chill the mixture while you prepare the cucumber slices.
- Use a mandoline set to about 1/8″ thickness (or a vegetable peeler) to slice the cucumber into long, thin strips. Lay the slices on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling near the end of each cucumber strip and roll it up tightly.
- Secure each roll with a toothpick inserted from top to bottom.
- Arrange the rolls on a platter and serve chilled.
This recipe is a simple, healthy appetizer option that’s easy to prep and versatile. Try different cheeses, herbs, or vegetables for new flavor combinations, and adjust the seasoning to taste. Enjoy!