Black Pepper Free Paleo Smoky Paprika Guacamole Veggie Cups
Creamy, smoky, and loaded with fresh flavor, this guacamole is the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears fast at any gathering. Smoked paprika and cumin do the heavy lifting here, giving the mashed avocado a deep, complex warmth that makes you forget there's anything missing from the spice lineup. For anyone navigating a black pepper sensitivity, guacamole can feel like a minefield — so many recipes and store-bought versions sneak it in without a second thought. This one skips it entirely while still delivering serious heat and depth through cayenne and bold aromatics. The veggie cups are a genius touch: hollowed cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips act as crisp, edible scoops that keep things light, fresh, and completely grain-free. Everything comes together quickly with just a bowl and a fork, making it an easy win for parties, snack boards, or a casual afternoon bite. Serve it right away for the best color and texture, and don't skip that final dusting of smoked paprika — it makes the whole platter look stunning.
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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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