Stuffed cucumbers with tuna

Stuffed Cucumbers with Tuna - a fresh and delicious recipe

Are you looking for a refreshing appetizer that is easy to prepare and full of flavor? Stuffed cucumbers with tuna are the perfect choice! This simple recipe combines crunchy textures with a creamy filling, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Ideal for parties, quick dinners, or as a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to become your favorite.

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 long cucumber (or 2 smaller ones)
- 200 g tuna in oil (for a more intense flavor, choose high-quality canned tuna)
- 1 clove of garlic
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise (for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cherry tomatoes, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash the cucumber well under cold running water and dry it with a clean towel. Start by finely chopping the parsley and crushing the clove of garlic. These ingredients will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to your filling.

2. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, add the drained tuna. Use a fork to break it up well. Then, add the mayonnaise, garlic and parsley mixture, salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until you achieve a smooth and creamy composition. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

3. Prepare the cucumber: Cut the cucumber into medium or small cylinders, depending on your preference. Each cylinder should be about 5-7 cm thick. Use a teaspoon or a knife to scoop out the seeds from the inside, leaving a "tube" that will be filled with the delicious cream.

4. Fill the cucumbers: Using a spoon or a piping bag (if you want a more elegant presentation), fill the cucumber cylinders with the tuna mixture. Make sure the filling is well distributed and slightly overflows the edge of the cucumber.

5. Garnish and serve: Arrange the stuffed cucumbers on a flat plate, standing upright for an attractive appearance. Decorate the plate with fresh parsley leaves and halved cherry tomatoes, to which you can add a small portion of mayonnaise for extra flavor. This detail will transform the dish into a festive meal.

Practical tips:
- Choose the right ingredients: Opt for quality tuna, as it will directly influence the taste of the dish. If you prefer, you can use tuna in water for a lighter version.
- Filling variations: Instead of mayonnaise, you can add Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a more interesting taste. You can also add chopped olives or capers for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea with lemon or a fruit cocktail.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are low in calories, being an excellent source of water and fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Tuna, on the other hand, is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but also provide beneficial nutritional value for your body.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Of course! You can substitute tuna with salmon, sardines, or even crab, depending on your preferences.
- How long can I keep the stuffed cucumbers? It is recommended to consume them fresh, preferably on the same day, but you can keep the filling in the fridge for a day or two.

Now that you know how to prepare these stuffed cucumbers with tuna, all that’s left is to start cooking! Whether you serve them at a party, a family dinner, or simply as a healthy snack, this dish is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy!