Beef Free Paleo Smoky Paprika Guacamole Veggie Cups
Creamy, smoky, and packed with fresh flavor, this guacamole is the kind of appetizer that disappears before you even sit down. Ripe avocados get mashed to a satisfying, slightly chunky texture, then layered with smoked paprika, cumin, lime juice, and fresh cilantro for a depth that goes way beyond basic. The whole thing gets spooned into hollowed cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips, turning every bite into its own little edible vessel — no chips required. It's a naturally plant-forward dish that skips any animal proteins entirely, so it fits cleanly into a whole-foods, grain-free lifestyle without any substitutions or workarounds. The smoked paprika does serious heavy lifting here, giving the guacamole a subtle, almost campfire-like warmth that makes it feel special without any extra effort. Bell peppers and cucumber keep things crisp and refreshing, balancing the richness of the avocado beautifully. This one is equally at home on a party platter or as a quick, satisfying snack straight from the fridge.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the guacamole
- 3 ripe avocados
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1 roma tomato, seeded and finely diced
- 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
For the veggie cups
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1 ½-inch wide strips or rings
- 1 large english cucumber, cut into 1-inch thick rounds
For serving
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cut the bell peppers into 1½-inch wide strips or rings, trimming away the seeds and white pith to create shallow, scoop-shaped cups. Using a small melon baller or teaspoon, hollow out the center of each cucumber round, leaving a ¼-inch base intact to form a cup. Arrange all veggie cups on a serving platter.
- 2
Place the avocado flesh in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork to your preferred texture — leave it slightly chunky for the best result.
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