Save It Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family as it brings a fresh and colorful touch to our festivities.
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 It This recipe creates moments where everyone gathers around, enjoying the festive flavors and vibrant colors together.
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 (per serving)
Calories: 45, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 1 g
Save It These cucumber bites add a refreshing and festive touch to any gathering, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I create the star shapes in the cucumber slices?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to carefully cut the centers out of half the cucumber rounds. These cutouts can be used as garnish or additional decoration.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them until serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- → What alternatives can I use for cream cheese?
For a vegan version, substitute regular cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives available in stores.
- → Which spices enhance the flavor best?
Garlic powder, lemon juice, and freshly ground black pepper create a balanced, zesty profile. Smoked paprika or chopped chives can be added for extra depth.
- → What garnishes complement these bites well?
Diced red and yellow bell peppers and fresh dill add color and freshness. Pomegranate seeds make an excellent festive garnish option.