When the weather heats up, the last thing I want to do is turn on the oven. Enter my new favorite obsession: these Keto Cucumber Boats! They are the ultimate no-cook recipe—cool, crisp, and packed with a savory, creamy filling of smoky bacon, turkey, and rich cream cheese. They’re not just a snack; they’re a lifesaver for quick lunches, a stunning appetizer for parties, and the perfect way to stay on track with your low-carb goals. Plus, how cute are those little tortilla sails? Let’s get making!
Ingredients
• 1 medium cucumber
• 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 3 oz (85g) whipped cream cheese, softened
• 1 slice smoked deli turkey, finely diced
• 1 tbsp (15g) mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp (5g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp (15g) diced pimiento peppers
• ¼ tsp (0.5g) dried basil
• 1 large low-carb tortilla and wooden skewers, for optional sails
Instructions
1. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, diced turkey, Parmesan, pimientos, and dried basil. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
2. Prepare the Cucumber Boats: Wash the cucumber and slice it in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to gently scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating two hollow boats.
3. Fill the Boats: Spoon the creamy filling evenly into each cucumber half, mounding it slightly.
4. Craft the Sails (Optional): If using, cut the low-carb tortilla into two large triangles. Pierce each triangle with a wooden skewer to create a sail.
5. Assemble and Serve: Firmly stick the skewer of each sail into the filling of a cucumber boat. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately for the best crunchy texture.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition Facts
• Serving Size: 1 boat
• Calories: 185 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Net Carbs: 4g
Pro Tips
• Prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Fill the cucumbers right before serving to keep them crisp.
• Instead of turkey, try using shredded rotisserie chicken, diced ham, or well-drained canned tuna.
• Mix in a dash of hot sauce or some finely diced jalapeño for a touch of heat.
• Substitute the dried basil with finely chopped fresh dill, chives, or parsley for a brighter taste.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Keto Cucumber Boats ahead of time
A: Yes, you can prepare the creamy filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best results and to ensure the cucumbers stay crisp, it’s best to fill them just before you plan to serve.
Q: What are some variations for the filling
A: You can easily customize the filling to your taste. Instead of turkey, try using shredded rotisserie chicken, diced ham, or well-drained canned tuna. For a spicy kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce or finely diced jalapeño. Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley also make great substitutes for dried basil.
Q: How many net carbs are in one cucumber boat
A: Each serving, which is one cucumber boat, contains just 4g of net carbs, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
