Save to Pinterest Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a staple at our holiday parties because of its vibrant look and fresh taste.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers: sliced into 1 cm rounds
- 1 small red bell pepper: finely diced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper: finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped): for garnish
- 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened: for the spread
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: to mix with cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: added to cream cheese mixture
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and slice the cucumbers into 1 cm (1/3-inch) thick rounds. Using a small star-shaped cookie cutter, cut a star shape out of the center of half the rounds. Set aside the star-shaped cutouts for garnish or other use.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- Finely dice the red and yellow bell peppers.
- Step 4:
- Pipe or spoon a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each whole cucumber round.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle each bite with diced red and yellow bell peppers and fresh dill for festive color.
- Step 6:
- Top each with a cucumber star (optional) or additional garnish as desired.
- Step 7:
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save to Pinterest These bites are always a hit with my family, especially during festive gatherings where the colorful presentation brings joy to all ages.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped chives to the cream cheese mixture. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. Use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream for a vegan version.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, small star-shaped cookie cutter, mixing bowl, spoon or piping bag.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream). Check all ingredient labels for possible allergens if using commercial products.
Save to Pinterest These star cucumber bites are a quick and beautiful way to impress guests with a fresh and tasty appetizer.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make these bites vegan?
Substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to keep the texture creamy while maintaining flavor.
- → What is the purpose of the star-shaped cutter?
The star-shaped cutter is used to create festive shapes from cucumber slices, enhancing the presentation for holiday occasions.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy spread and cut the cucumbers ahead of time, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What garnishes work best with these bites?
Diced red and yellow bell peppers, fresh dill, and optionally pomegranate seeds add bright colors and fresh flavors.
- → Are there any allergen concerns?
This dish contains dairy ingredients. Be sure to check labels if using commercial products and inform guests of potential allergens.