Save It A festive, refreshing appetizer featuring crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and aromatic dill, shaped into charming stars perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a hit at all my Christmas parties, impressing guests with its elegant look and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 large cucumbers
- Cheese Mixture: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 2 tbsp sour cream, 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish), 1 tsp lemon juice, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 1 tbsp red bell pepper, diced finely (optional, for decoration), Extra dill sprigs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and slice the cucumbers lengthwise into thin, even slices (about 4 mm thick).
- Step 2:
- Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut stars from the cucumber slices. Set aside on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 4:
- Transfer the cheese mixture into a piping bag fitted with a small star tip (or use a plastic bag with a snipped corner).
- Step 5:
- Arrange the cucumber stars on a serving platter. Pipe a small dollop of the cheese mixture onto each star.
- Step 6:
- Garnish with a tiny piece of red bell pepper and a sprig of dill for festive color.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, or chill for up to 1 hour before serving.
Save It This appetizer always brings the family together around the holiday table to enjoy something light and delicious.
Notes
Add a pinch of garlic powder or chives for extra flavor.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, star-shaped cookie cutter (3–4 cm diameter), mixing bowl, piping bag or plastic zip bag, serving platter.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy cream cheese, sour cream). Gluten-free as written always check labels for cross-contamination if necessary.
Save It This simple appetizer adds festive charm with minimal effort, perfect for your holiday celebrations.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I prevent cucumber slices from becoming soggy?
After cutting, place cucumber stars on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and keep them crisp.
- → Can I prepare the cucumber stars ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them up to one hour before serving and keep them chilled to maintain freshness.
- → What can be used instead of cream cheese?
For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- → How should the dill be prepared for best flavor?
Finely chop fresh dill to evenly distribute its aroma and blend well with the cheese mixture.
- → What tools are needed to make the star shapes?
A star-shaped cookie cutter (3–4 cm diameter) is ideal for cutting the cucumber slices into neat stars.
- → Are these cucumber stars suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat ingredients.