Spiced Cucumber Sticks Recipe – Healthy, Refreshing, and Easy Mediterranean Snack

Difficulty:

1/5

Serves:

4 PEOPLE

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Spiced Cucumber Sticks Recipe

Spiced Cucumber Sticks are a simple yet flavorful snack that transforms ordinary cucumbers into a crisp, tangy, and refreshing treat. This recipe combines the cooling texture of baby cucumbers with the bright acidity of lemon juice and the unique tart flavor of sumac, a spice popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. A pinch of salt brings all the flavors together, resulting in a snack that is light, healthy, and packed with flavor.

The Inspiration

The inspiration for Spiced Cucumber Sticks comes from traditional Mediterranean mezze platters, which highlight fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. In Mediterranean cuisine, cucumbers are often paired with tangy flavors like lemon and sumac to enhance their crisp, refreshing nature. Sumac, a reddish-purple spice made from dried berries, adds a subtle citrusy tartness that brightens up the snack, making each bite exciting and flavorful.

Featured on Everyday Excellent with host Vanessa Gianfrancesco, Spiced Cucumber Sticks are ideal for busy households, health-conscious individuals, or anyone looking to introduce more vegetables into their diet in a fun, tasty way. They are versatile enough to pair with dips, stand alone as a snack, or complement larger dishes.

Ingredients

4 baby cucumbers, cut into spears
½ tsp (2.5ml) sumac powder
Juice of ½ lemon
½ tsp (2.5ml) salt

Methods

Spread out the cucumber slices. Squeeze over lemon juice and sprinkle with sumac and salt.
Serve cucumber sticks standing up in a vessel for easy grabbing and snacking.

Serving Suggestions

Spiced Cucumber Sticks are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They make a perfect standalone snack, ideal for a quick, low-calorie, nutrient-packed treat, and can be served in small glasses or cups for easy grabbing. For added flavor and a Mediterranean twist, pair them with dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or a yogurt-based dressing to create a refreshing and satisfying appetizer. These cucumber sticks also work beautifully on party platters alongside other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers, offering a colorful and crisp option for guests.

Additionally, they are a convenient addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets, complementing sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls with their bright, zesty taste. Serving them standing upright in a container adds visual appeal and makes snacking fun and interactive, encouraging everyone to enjoy fresh vegetables in a creative and flavorful way.

Final Thoughts

Spiced Cucumber Sticks are a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed snack that demonstrates how simple ingredients can create extraordinary taste. Combining crisp baby cucumbers, zesty lemon juice, and tart sumac with a pinch of salt results in a refreshing snack suitable for any time of day. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for anyone seeking a light and nourishing snack. It is ideal for health-conscious individuals, busy parents, and hosts looking for a simple yet elegant appetizer. With minimal preparation, it brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your kitchen in under 10 minutes.

By choosing fresh ingredients and emphasizing bold yet balanced flavors, Spiced Cucumber Sticks become more than just a snack—they become a simple celebration of freshness, texture, and taste. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, healthy, and flavorful vegetable snack.

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