Recipe + Photo by April Viar 

Try these easy and tasty Cucumber Appetizers with creamy chive cashew cheese. These bite-sized delights feature crunchy rounds of fresh cucumber, providing a perfect balance of crispness and creaminess. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a light starter. 

Servings: 12 

INGREDIENTS 

• 3 English cucumbers 
• 4 cups raw cashews 
• 2 garlic cloves 
• 1oz container chives, finely chopped 
• 1 large lemon, juiced 
• 1 tsp onion powder 
• 1 tsp cracked red pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt 
• 1/2 cup water 

DIRECTIONS 

• Place the cashews in a stock pot, cover them with water and boil for 30 minutes. After boiling, drain and rinse the cashews thoroughly. 
• Combine the cashews, garlic, lemon juice, spices and water in a vitamix, blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy. 
• Remove the mixture from the vitamix and transfer it to a bowl. Stir in the chopped chives until fully incorporated. Set to the side. 
• Slice your cucumbers into 1/2 inch sections. Using a 1/2 tsp measuring spoon, scoop out a small portion from the center without creating a hole. 
• Fill each cucumber piece with a spoonful of cashew chive cheese. 
• Garnish with chives and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. 

NOTES

You can always soak the cashews in the refrigerator overnight instead of boiling.