How do I create the star shapes in the cucumber?

Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to carefully cut the center out of some cucumber rounds, creating festive star shapes perfect for garnishing.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them until serving to maintain freshness and flavor.

For a plant-based version, substitute with vegan cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.

Add smoked paprika or chopped chives to the cream cheese mixture for an extra savory kick.

Diced red and yellow bell peppers, fresh dill, cucumber stars, and optional pomegranate seeds add color and festive appeal.

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

I first served these at a holiday party and they were an instant hit with everyone, even those who don&t usually like cucumber.

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.

This recipe became a tradition in my family during holidays, bringing smiles around the table.

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)

A perfect light appetizer that adds color and flavor to any holiday celebration.

→ How do I create the star shapes in the cucumber?: Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to carefully cut the center out of some cucumber rounds, creating festive star shapes perfect for garnishing.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?: Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them until serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
→ What alternatives can I use for cream cheese?: For a plant-based version, substitute with vegan cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.
→ How can I add more flavor to the topping?: Add smoked paprika or chopped chives to the cream cheese mixture for an extra savory kick.
→ Which garnishes enhance the presentation?: Diced red and yellow bell peppers, fresh dill, cucumber stars, and optional pomegranate seeds add color and festive appeal.