How do I make the star shapes in cucumbers?

Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the centers from half the cucumber rounds carefully. This creates festive shapes perfect for garnish.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cucumber rounds and store them refrigerated for a few hours before serving to maintain freshness.

For a vegan option, substitute plant-based cream cheese and sour cream to keep the creamy texture and flavor.

Diced red and yellow bell peppers add crisp texture and colorful contrast, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Pomegranate seeds or chopped chives make excellent garnishes to add bursts of flavor and festive appeal.

Festive, refreshing cucumber slices topped with a zesty cream cheese spread and colorful garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings.

This appetizer has become a staple at our family holiday celebrations, always receiving compliments for its fresh flavors and fun presentation.

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

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.

Our family loves gathering around the table and sharing these bites, sparking joy and lively holiday conversations.

Sharp knife, Cutting board, Small star-shaped cookie cutter, Mixing bowl, Spoon or piping bag

Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream). Check all ingredient labels for possible allergens if using commercial products.

Calories: 45 per serving, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 1 g

These bites are best enjoyed fresh but also hold up well for a few hours refrigerated before serving.

→ How do I make the star shapes in cucumbers?: Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the centers from half the cucumber rounds carefully. This creates festive shapes perfect for garnish.
→ Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble the cucumber rounds and store them refrigerated for a few hours before serving to maintain freshness.
→ What alternatives can I use for cream cheese?: For a vegan option, substitute plant-based cream cheese and sour cream to keep the creamy texture and flavor.
→ How do the bell peppers enhance the dish?: Diced red and yellow bell peppers add crisp texture and colorful contrast, enhancing both taste and presentation.
→ Are there suggested garnishes for added flavor?: Pomegranate seeds or chopped chives make excellent garnishes to add bursts of flavor and festive appeal.