Hummus & Cucumber Toast

Hummus & Cucumber Toast is a delightful fusion of creamy, nutty hummus spread generously over a crisp, toasted slice of bread, topped with cool, refreshing cucumber slices. This simple yet sophisticated dish is perfect for a light lunch, a snack, or even as a charming appetizer at your next gathering. The combination of flavors and textures is truly a testament to the beauty of simplicity in culinary art.

The Origins and Cultural Significance

Hummus, a rich and creamy spread made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, has long been a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. With roots that trace back centuries, hummus has become a beloved dish worldwide, celebrated for its versatility and nutritional benefits. It’s not just food; it’s a cultural emblem that brings people together, from bustling street markets in Beirut to elegant dining tables in Istanbul. The pairing of hummus with cucumber, a common practice in many Middle Eastern households, brings a refreshing balance that elevates the dish to a new level of culinary delight.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

The star of this recipe, hummus, is celebrated for its creamy texture and nutty, savory taste. The use of high-quality tahini, made from toasted sesame seeds, imparts a rich depth of flavor, while freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the creaminess. Garlic provides a subtle, aromatic warmth, and a touch of olive oil ties everything together with its fruity richness. The cucumbers, sliced thinly, offer a crisp, cool contrast to the smooth hummus, making each bite a delightful interplay of textures. The choice of bread is crucial; a hearty whole-grain or rustic sourdough can provide the perfect sturdy base to support the toppings, adding its own complex flavors to the mix.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Toasting the bread to a perfect golden hue is an essential step, ensuring a crisp surface that can hold the toppings without becoming soggy. When preparing the hummus, patience is key. Pureeing the chickpeas until they reach a silky smooth consistency is an art that requires both time and attention. Don’t rush it—this step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The cucumber should be sliced as thinly as possible; a mandoline slicer can be an invaluable tool here, providing uniform slices that drape elegantly over the hummus. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for a touch of luxury, and finish with a sprinkle of za’atar or freshly cracked black pepper for a flavorful finish.

Print Recipe

Hummus & Cucumber Toast

Author: Sarah Baker Courses: Breakfast

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 2 Estimated Cost: $ 5 Calories: 240 kcal

Best Season: Summer

Description

This vibrant toast combines smooth hummus with fresh cucumber slices, offering a delightful contrast in texture and a wholesome, satisfying snack or light meal.

Ingredients

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Servings

Hummus Ingredients

• 1 cup canned chickpeas (Rinsed and drained. You can also use freshly cooked chickpeas for a creamier texture.)
• 2 tablespoons tahini (Make sure to stir well before using, as it tends to separate.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor.)
• 1 clove garlic (Crushed. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste.)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (Toasted for extra depth, if desired.)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste after blending all ingredients.)
• 2 tablespoons water (Adjust for desired consistency.)

Toast Ingredients

• 4 slices whole grain bread (Toasted to your preferred level of crispiness.)
• 1 medium cucumber (Thinly sliced for a refreshing crunch.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (For drizzling over the assembled toasts.)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (Lightly toasted for a nutty flavor.)
• 0.5 cup fresh herbs (Such as parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish.)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Gather Your Supplies

   Start by laying out your ingredients: fresh hummus, a crisp cucumber, your favorite type of bread, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   Using high-quality hummus and fresh cucumber will make all the difference in flavor.

Toast the Bread

1. Get the Bread Ready

   Pop your slices of bread into the toaster until they reach a golden-brown perfection.
   For added flavor, consider using a sourdough or rye bread.

Prepare the Cucumber

1. Slice the Cucumber

   While the bread is toasting, thinly slice the cucumber using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform slices.
   Peeling the cucumber is optional but can give a smoother texture.

Assemble the Toast

1. Spread the Hummus

   Generously spread hummus over each slice of the freshly toasted bread.
   Don't be stingy—this is the heart of your toast!

2. Add the Cucumber

   Layer the cucumber slices on top of the hummus, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful presentation.
   Try arranging the cucumber in a spiral for a fancy touch.

Finishing Touches

1. Season and Serve

   Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the top to finish. Serve immediately for the best taste.
   A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of paprika can elevate the flavors even more.

Note

For an added layer of flavor, consider using roasted garlic hummus or adding a dash of smoked paprika before spreading. To enhance the crunch and freshness, pick cucumbers that are firm and vibrant in color. If you prefer a tangier profile, sprinkle a few drops of lemon juice over the cucumbers before placing them on the toast. For extra texture and nutrition, top with a handful of microgreens or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle a touch of olive oil infused with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a gourmet touch. To keep the toast from becoming soggy, ensure the bread is toasted to a golden brown. For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and give it a stir before using.

Keywords: hummus, cucumber, toast, snack, healthy

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