Save to Pinterest A festive, refreshing appetizer featuring crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and aromatic dill, shaped into charming stars perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at our family Christmas, loved for its lightness and festive look.
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 to Pinterest This dish brings back joyful memories of sharing festive moments with family while enjoying light and fresh appetizers together.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 32. Total Fat 2.5 g. Carbohydrates 1.5 g. Protein 1.2 g per serving.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these refreshing stars as a bright start to your holiday meal or a light party snack.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the cucumber slices from becoming soggy?
After slicing, place cucumber stars on paper towels to absorb excess moisture before assembling.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and chill them for up to one hour before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What cheese is best for the topping?
A smooth cream cheese mixed with sour cream and fresh dill creates a creamy, flavorful topping.
- → Are there garnish options besides red bell pepper?
Extra dill sprigs or finely chopped chives complement the flavors well and add visual appeal.
- → Can these bites suit vegan preferences?
Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based cream cheese and sour cream to make a vegan variation.