Save Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer is always the star at our holiday parties and so easy to prepare in advance.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers: sliced 1 cm thick rounds
- 1 small red bell pepper: finely diced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper: finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill: finely chopped
- 200 g cream cheese: softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: for creaminess
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: adds zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: for flavor
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare cucumbers:
- Wash and slice cucumbers into 1 cm thick rounds. Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut stars out of centers of half the rounds. Set stars aside for garnish.
- Make cream cheese spread:
- Mix cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Dice peppers:
- Finely dice red and yellow bell peppers.
- Assemble bites:
- Pipe or spoon cream cheese mixture onto whole cucumber rounds. Sprinkle with diced peppers and fresh dill.
- Add garnish:
- Top each bite with a cucumber star or additional garnish as desired.
- Serve:
- Arrange on platter and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save This recipe always brings smiles and festive cheer to our family gatherings.
Variations
Add smoked paprika or chopped chives to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor or garnish with pomegranate seeds for a colorful touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as an appetizer or finger food during holiday parties and family events.
Storage Tips
Store assembled bites covered in the refrigerator and consume within a day for best freshness and texture.
Save
These festive bites combine simple ingredients with eye-catching presentation to brighten any holiday table.
Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As
- → How do I create the star shapes in the cucumbers?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to gently press and remove the center part of cucumber slices. This makes decorative stars perfect for garnish.
- → Can I prepare these cucumber bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate for a few hours before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.
- → What are good garnish options for extra flavor and color?
Diced red and yellow bell peppers add vibrant color, while fresh dill enhances aroma. Pomegranate seeds or chopped chives add festive touches.
- → Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Substitute plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to keep it vegan-friendly without compromising creaminess.
- → What tips ensure the cream cheese spread is smooth?
Soften the cream cheese before mixing and blend thoroughly with sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a creamy texture.