Craving a light, refreshing, and satisfying bite? These Cucumber Boats with Herb Turkey Salad offer a perfect solution for a healthy adult snack. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how fresh they taste, making them an ideal choice any time of day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cucumber: English cucumbers work best for their size and fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers can be used, just scoop out more seeds.
- Cooked Turkey: Leftover roasted turkey or quality deli turkey (low sodium) are perfect. Cooked chicken breast is a great substitute.
- Greek Yogurt: Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt provides creaminess and protein. Mayonnaise (light) can be used, but yogurt is a healthier option.
- Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, and chives add bright flavor. Feel free to use your favorite combination.
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers
- 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, finely diced or shredded
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, spoon, cutting board, sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Cucumbers
Wash your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice each cucumber in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds from the center of each cucumber half, creating a “boat.”
2. Make the Turkey Salad
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely diced or shredded cooked turkey, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, fresh parsley, fresh chives, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix everything until it’s well combined.
3. Season the Salad
Season your turkey salad with salt and black pepper to your liking. Taste a small amount and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You want a flavorful but not overpowering blend.
4. Fill the Cucumber Boats
Spoon the herb turkey salad generously into each cucumber boat. Arrange them on a platter for serving.
5. Garnish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle a little paprika over the filled cucumber boats for extra color and a subtle smoky note. Serve immediately as a delightful healthy adult snack.
Variation Ideas
- Add finely diced celery or red onion for extra crunch.
- Mix in a pinch of curry powder for a different flavor profile.
- Top with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning.
- For a vegetarian option, use mashed chickpeas instead of turkey.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover cucumber boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The cucumbers might soften slightly over time, but they will still be delicious. It’s best to store the turkey salad and cucumber boats separately if preparing ahead to maintain cucumber crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of turkey?
A: Absolutely! Cooked chicken breast works wonderfully as a substitute for turkey in this recipe.
Q: How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?
A: Scooping out the seeds helps reduce water content. You can also lightly salt the cucumber halves and let them sit for 10 minutes, then blot dry before filling.
Q: Is this a good recipe for meal prep?
A: Yes, you can prepare the turkey salad up to 2-3 days in advance. Keep it stored separately from the cucumbers and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: You can use dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount since their flavor is more concentrated. Fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best taste.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
A: Yes, finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or even corn would be great additions to the turkey salad mixture.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for a low-carb healthy adult snack.
