How do I create the star shapes in the cucumbers?

Slice cucumbers into 1 cm rounds and use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out stars from half the rounds. Save the cutouts for garnishing.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate until serving. Chill helps maintain freshness and allows flavors to meld.

Plant-based cream cheese and sour cream can be used to make a vegan-friendly version without compromising taste.

Diced red and yellow bell peppers, fresh dill, and pomegranate seeds add color and flavor, enhancing presentation.

Incorporate smoked paprika, chopped chives, or a touch of garlic powder into the cream cheese mixture for added depth.

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

This recipe became a holiday tradition in my family, bringing a fresh and colorful touch to our gatherings every year.

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 enjoys these bites every holiday season as a refreshing starter that even the kids love to help prepare.

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

These cucumbers bites bring holiday cheer with every bite and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

→ How do I create the star shapes in the cucumbers?: Slice cucumbers into 1 cm rounds and use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out stars from half the rounds. Save the cutouts for garnishing.
→ Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?: Yes, assemble and refrigerate until serving. Chill helps maintain freshness and allows flavors to meld.
→ Are there suitable alternatives for cream cheese?: Plant-based cream cheese and sour cream can be used to make a vegan-friendly version without compromising taste.
→ What garnishes complement these bites?: Diced red and yellow bell peppers, fresh dill, and pomegranate seeds add color and flavor, enhancing presentation.
→ How to add extra flavor to the spread?: Incorporate smoked paprika, chopped chives, or a touch of garlic powder into the cream cheese mixture for added depth.