Cucumber Subs
Cucumber Subs are a low-carb and gluten-free substitute to a traditional sandwich. This simple cucumber sandwich recipe takes crisp cucumbers and uses them as buns for your favorite sandwiches. Enjoy as a fresh lunch or fun summer dinner.
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These cucumber sandwiches aren’t just great for being healthier than a slice of bread. They hold their own as “buns” and provide a cool crunch that you just won’t get from soft white bread! Perfect for a hot summer day, this will be your new favorite sandwich “bread.”
Our Cucumber Subs feature a simple turkey bacon club style sandwich. This includes all the best things for a sandwich like mayo, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and thin sliced turkey. Feel free to adjust this as you feel fit, anything will go great on these subs! Add provolone cheese, salami, red onions, whatever fits you!
You can even use cucumbers to make appetizer, bite-sized versions of Cucumber Subs. Get a sharp knife and slice some smaller cucumber slices. Then take your sandwich ingredients and make mini sandwiches. Use a toothpick to help hold them together. Using small slices of cucumber makes the perfect, tasty snack!
Why You’ll Love this Recipe:
Crunchy & Refreshing: The cucumber acts as a crisp, hydrating alternative to bread, making every bite light and satisfying.
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Perfect for those following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Protein-Packed: Turkey and bacon provide a filling, high-protein meal that keeps you energized.
Quick & Easy: No baking or cooking required (except for the bacon), making it a great grab-and-go meal.
Creamy & Savory: Mayo adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon and turkey.
Customizable: Swap the cheese, add different meats, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Ingredients to Make Cucumber Subs:
- english cucumber. Use an English cucumber for a longer, sturdier sub with fewer seeds, or Persian cucumbers for smaller, bite-sized versions.
- deli turkey. Opt for high-quality deli turkey with minimal additives for the best flavor. Smoked turkey adds extra depth.
- cheese. Swiss, cheddar, or provolone work well. Choose a cheese that complements the turkey and bacon without overpowering.
- bacon. Use crispy cooked bacon for the best crunch. Thick-cut bacon adds more texture, while regular-cut bacon gives a classic bite.
- mayonnaise. Adds a rich, creamy contrast to the crisp cucumber. Use regular, avocado oil, or homemade mayo for the best taste.
- tomato. Fresh ripe tomatoes add juiciness and balance the flavors. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best.
- lettuce. Butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg add a refreshing crunch and help hold everything together.
How to Make Cucumber Subs:
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow space for the fillings.
- Spread mayo inside both halves of the cucumber.
- Layer turkey, cheese, cooked bacon, tomato slices, and lettuce inside the cucumber.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the top half of the cucumber over the fillings, gently press together, and enjoy!
Recommended Equipment
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Choose the Right Cucumber: English cucumbers work best because they are longer, firmer, and have fewer seeds than regular cucumbers. If using a standard cucumber, peel it if the skin is too thick.
- Scoop the Seeds Completely: Removing the seeds helps prevent excess moisture and makes space for the fillings. A spoon works best for this step.
- Crisp Up the Bacon: For the best crunch, cook bacon until crispy and let it cool on a paper towel before adding it to the sandwich.
- Layer Smartly: Start with mayo on both cucumber halves, then layer cheese first to create a barrier that prevents excess moisture from softening the bacon.
- Keep It Secure: If needed, use toothpicks to hold the sub together or wrap it in parchment paper for easy handling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Loaded Cheese Fries
- Tuna Cakes
- Sweet Potato Chips
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Almond Crusted Mushrooms
- Apple Coleslaw
How to Store:
Refrigeration: If you need to store the cucumber sub, wrap it tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
Freezing: Not recommended since cucumbers have high water content and will become mushy when thawed.
Make-Ahead: Store the cucumber and fillings separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days, then assemble just before eating for the best crunch and freshness.
FAQs:
Yes! Swap turkey for ham, chicken, or roast beef, and try cheddar, Swiss, or provolone for different flavors.
Use toothpicks to hold it together or wrap it in parchment paper for easy handling.
Absolutely! Try sliced red onion, banana peppers, or a drizzle of ranch or balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
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Cucumber Subs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber
- 2-3 slices deli turkey
- 2 slices cheese
- 2 slices cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 leaves lettuce
Instructions
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow space for the fillings.
- Spread mayo inside both halves of the cucumber.
- Layer turkey, cheese, cooked bacon, tomato slices, and lettuce inside the cucumber.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the top half of the cucumber over the fillings, gently press together, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
-
- Choose the Right Cucumber: English cucumbers work best because they are longer, firmer, and have fewer seeds than regular cucumbers. If using a standard cucumber, peel it if the skin is too thick.
- Scoop the Seeds Completely: Removing the seeds helps prevent excess moisture and makes space for the fillings. A spoon works best for this step.
- Crisp Up the Bacon: For the best crunch, cook bacon until crispy and let it cool on a paper towel before adding it to the sandwich.
- Layer Smartly: Start with mayo on both cucumber halves, then layer cheese first to create a barrier that prevents excess moisture from softening the bacon.
- Keep It Secure: If needed, use toothpicks to hold the sub together or wrap it in parchment paper for easy handling.
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Oh my God these are amazing! They’re so easy and delicious!
Yay! Glad you liked it, Kate! 🙂