Save Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become my go-to for holiday parties because guests love the fun star shapes and fresh flavors.
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
- 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese: softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: to mix with cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: for zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: for flavor
- 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 our family together for a fun and creative snack time during the holidays.
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. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream.
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 These holiday star cucumber bites are a simple yet charming addition to any festive table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the star shapes in cucumbers?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to press into the center of cucumber rounds. Remove the cut-out stars carefully to use as garnish or decorations on top.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, assemble the cucumber bites and refrigerate them until serving. This helps flavors meld while maintaining their crisp texture.
- → What can I add for extra flavor in the cheese spread?
Consider adding smoked paprika, chopped chives, or a bit of lemon zest to enhance the creamy topping with additional flavor notes.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for the creamy topping?
Yes, replace cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to accommodate vegan preferences without sacrificing texture.
- → What is the best way to serve these bites?
Arrange the cucumber bites on a serving platter garnished with cucumber stars and fresh dill for a festive presentation perfect for holiday gatherings.