Save Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
I love serving these refreshing bites at holiday parties because they always impress guests and require minimal prep.
Ingredients
- Produce: 2 large cucumbers, 1 small red bell pepper, 1 small yellow bell pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped)
- Dairy: 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened, 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Pantry: 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and black pepper to taste
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 This recipe always brings the family together during the holidays as everyone enjoys the fresh flavors and festive presentation.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 45 per serving, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 1 g
Save Enjoy these festive bites as a refreshing appetizer that adds color and cheer to any holiday table.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → How do I create the star shapes in the cucumber slices?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to press into the center of cucumber rounds, removing the center to form star shapes. The cutouts can be used as garnish or extra decoration.
- → Can I prepare these cucumber bites ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Add garnishes just before serving to maintain freshness and appearance.
- → What ingredients enhance the flavor of the creamy spread?
The mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper creates a balanced, tangy flavor that complements the cucumber's freshness.
- → Are there good substitutions for the dairy components?
Plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives work well for a vegan version without compromising the creamy texture.
- → What are some garnish ideas to elevate presentation?
Consider sprinkling fresh dill, diced red and yellow bell peppers, or pomegranate seeds to add color and festive appeal.
- → What tool is essential for shaping the cucumber stars?
A small star-shaped cookie cutter is ideal for neatly cutting out the star shapes from cucumber slices.