…Outside that is. It’s time to move outside to the deck, yard, or porch. I needed a quick appetizer last night and it doesn’t get any easier or fresher than this.
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
Slice French bread into thin slices and arrange on platter. Assemble by putting a slice of mozzarella cheese, then tomato, then salt and pepper to taste, then top with basil leaf.
Summertime Stuffed Cucumbers. I garnished mine with mixed greens and edible flowers.
Cheese and crackers are the good ole standby when it comes to hors d’oeuvres or nibblers during happy hour. Keep a hard cheese like a smoked gouda, a soft cheese like Brie, and a spreadable one like Boursin, on hand in the fridge. Keep water crackers in the pantry and you’re always ready for pop-ins or spontaneous happy hours.
Try These…Stuffed Cucumbers
For those times when you have a little extra time, here is an easy appetizer. These are a little lighter bite than cheese and crackers which is nice if you plan to serve dinner too. You can vary the recipe according to what you have on hand. Here is my recipe then I’ll tell you how you might change it up it depending on what you have available. If you have a garden with fresh cukes a plenty, keep the other ingredients stocked.
Recipe for Summertime Stuffed Cucumbers
Wash and score cucumbers with a fork to give them that fancy look.
Cut off the ends and cut the cucumber into approx. one-inch slices. Hollow out the pulp.
Mix together cream cheese and milk until softened. Add feta cheese, olives and parsley. Spoon mixture into cucumbers. Garnish with a sprig of parsley.
Serve the stuffed cukes on a pretty platter and enjoy.
The Variations are Endless
I bet you can think of some ingredients too.
Substitute blue cheese for feta.
Use only cream cheese and season with fresh chives, basil, or dried spices like Herbes de Provence.
Add chopped marinated red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead of olives. Use green olives or capers.
A dash of Worcester sauce or hot sauce will spice it up.
