Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts

If you’re looking for a fresh, satisfying snack that’s simple to make yet packed with flavour and nutrition, you’re going to love these Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts. This recipe takes classic flavours and elevates them with the tanginess of feta, the crunch of fresh veggies, and the earthy taste of sprouts, all sitting atop wholesome whole-grain toast.

Whether you're whipping up a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a snack to keep you going in the afternoon, these toasts are versatile enough to work for any occasion. They’re not only delicious but also bring in a nice mix of textures and colours, making them as beautiful as they are tasty. Plus, they’re super easy to meal prep, so you can enjoy them any time without much fuss.

Let's dive into why these Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts are an absolute must-try and explore some easy ways to customise them to suit your tastes.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THESE CREAM CHEESE & CUCUMBER TOASTS.

This recipe isn’t just about simplicity; it’s about balancing flavours, textures, and nutrition in a way that feels indulgent but is actually quite good for you. Here’s what makes these toasts so amazing:

• Creamy and Crunchy: The smooth cream cheese and feta mix pairs perfectly with the crunch of fresh cucumber and radishes. It’s a texture lover’s dream!

• Loaded with Freshness: Topping these toasts with cucumbers, radishes, and sprouts gives them a refreshing quality that’s perfect for any time of day.

• Quick & Easy to Make: You can prepare the cream cheese spread in advance and keep it in the fridge, making these toasts a breeze to assemble when hunger strikes.

• Packed with Nutrients: Thanks to the whole-grain bread, fresh veggies, and protein-packed cheese, these toasts are balanced and nourishing.

• Customisable: You can easily tweak this recipe based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. (More on this below!)

So, if you’re ready to elevate your toast game, let’s start with the ingredients!

CREAM CHEESE & CUCUMBER TOASTS.

Serves: 2 people

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: Nil

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious toasts:

Cream Cheese: This forms the base of the spread, adding richness and a lovely creaminess. Make sure it’s at room temperature so it’s easier to mix.

Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy, salty flavour that complements the cream cheese and gives the spread more depth.

Shallots: The shallots bring a subtle sharpness and freshness that brightens up the flavours.

Garlic: Just a hint of garlic goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste of the spread. It’s optional, but highly recommended if you enjoy a little garlicky kick.

Whole-Grain Bread: Whole-grain bread not only adds fibre but also a nutty flavour that complements the creaminess of the spread and the crispness of the veggies. Toast it for added crunch.

Cucumber: The star of the toppings, cucumber adds a refreshing, hydrating crunch. Choose English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a slightly sweeter taste.

Radishes: These bring a peppery flavour and a pop of colour that makes the toasts look as good as they taste.

Alfalfa Sprouts: Alfalfa or any other mild sprouts add a delicate, earthy flavour along with a bit of extra nutrition.

Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavour.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKE CREAM CHEESE & CUCUMBER TOASTS.

Let’s get into the fun part – making these tasty toasts! This recipe serves two people, with each person getting two slices. Feel free to double or triple the recipe if you’re making it for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread

Start by taking a small bowl and combining the following:

• 125 g (4 oz.) of cream cheese, softened to room temperature.

• 60g (2 oz.) of feta cheese, also at room temperature.

• 2 tbsp. of shallots, finely sliced.

• ½ tsp. of minced garlic.

Mix everything well until you have a smooth, creamy spread. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Remember that feta can be quite salty, so taste before adding too much salt.

Pro Tip: If you like a super smooth texture, you can use a hand mixer to whip the spread until it’s light and fluffy. This also makes it easier to spread on the toast.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

Choose a high-quality whole-grain bread for this recipe. Whole grains are packed with fibre and nutrients, and they add a delightful crunch once toasted. Toast four slices of bread until they’re golden brown and crispy. This will give a nice contrast to the creamy spread.

Alternative: If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use your favourite gluten-free bread instead. This recipe works with any bread you enjoy!

Step 3: Assemble the Toasts

Now that your bread is toasted, it’s time to bring everything together.

1. Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly across the four slices of toast. Use a spoon or a small spatula to spread it out, covering the entire surface of each slice.

2. Add the Toppings: Start by layering cucumber slices over the cream cheese spread. Arrange them so that each bite gets a bit of cucumber. Follow up with a few radish slices, and finally, sprinkle the alfalfa sprouts (or your choice of sprouts) on top.

3. Season to Taste: Finish with a sprinkle of salt and a few more twists of black pepper for extra flavour.

And that’s it! Your Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts are ready to serve. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so dig in right away or serve them to guests for an impressive, nutritious snack.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF THIS RECIPE.

Each component of these toasts brings something valuable to the table nutritionally, making this recipe a balanced snack or light meal.

Whole-Grain Bread: High in fibre, whole-grain bread supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Cream Cheese & Feta: These provide a source of protein and healthy fats. Feta, in particular, is rich in calcium and brings beneficial probiotics.

Cucumber & Radish: Both of these veggies are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Cucumber is hydrating and radishes are a great source of antioxidants.

Alfalfa Sprouts: Sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as a variety of antioxidants, which help support overall health.

CUSTOMISING YOUR CREAM CHEESE & CUCUMBER TOASTS.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to make these toasts your own:

Swap the Herbs: Don’t have shallots on hand? Try chives, dill, or parsley instead. Each herb will bring its unique flavour, keeping the dish exciting.

Add More Veggies: Consider adding thin slices of avocado for creaminess, or rocket for a peppery kick. You can also try thinly sliced capsicums or microgreens.

Try a Different Spread: For a twist, try mixing Greek yoghurt with the feta instead of cream cheese. This will give you a tangier flavour profile while keeping things light.

Add Protein: Want to turn these toasts into more of a meal? Add smoked salmon or boiled egg slices on top for an extra protein boost.

PERFECT FOR MEAL PREP.

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, you’ll be happy to know that you can prep most of this recipe in advance. Here’s how:

Make the Cream Cheese Spread: Mix up the cream cheese, feta, garlic, and shallots, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Prep the Veggies: Slice the cucumbers and radishes and store them in a container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This will help them stay fresh and crunchy.

Toast Just Before Eating: Toast the bread right before you’re ready to eat so it doesn’t get soggy.

By prepping ahead, you can assemble these toasts in minutes – perfect for busy mornings or a quick lunch.

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS.

Looking to round out this snack or turn it into a light meal? Here are a few things that would pair perfectly with these Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts:

A Side Salad: Try a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to keep things fresh and light.

A Bowl of Soup: These toasts pair beautifully with a bowl of tomato soup or vegetable soup for a cosy, comforting meal.

Fruit on the Side: For a balanced snack, serve these toasts with a handful of berries or apple slices.

FINAL THOUGHTS.

These Cream Cheese & Cucumber Toasts are the ultimate combination of simplicity and flavour. They’re fresh, light, and packed with nutrients, making them a wonderful choice for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adjust to your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

If you’re ready to elevate your toast game and add a little variety to your routine, give this recipe a try. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick bite, these toasts are bound to become a new favourite.

Give them a go, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @michellemitchellhealthcoach when you make them. I love seeing your beautiful creations!