Mediterranean Diet Friendly Paleo Smoky Paprika Guacamole Veggie Cups
Creamy, smoky, and loaded with fresh vegetables, this appetizer is the kind of thing that disappears from a party platter before anyone even notices there are no chips in sight. Ripe avocados get mashed with smoked paprika, cumin, lime juice, and a handful of bright cilantro, creating a guacamole that has real depth and a gentle kick. Instead of tortilla chips or crackers, the dip gets spooned right into hollowed cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips — turning the vessel itself into part of the snack. This approach leans hard into the Mediterranean principle of letting whole, plant-forward ingredients do the heavy lifting, and it works beautifully here. Avocados bring heart-healthy fats, the tomato and cilantro add freshness, and the colorful bell peppers and cucumber keep everything light and crisp. It's naturally grain-free and completely free of processed ingredients, so you can serve it without any mental asterisks. Dust the finished cups with a pinch of smoked paprika for a little drama, and get them to the table fast — they go quickly.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
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.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!