Pin It A festive, refreshing appetizer featuring crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and aromatic dill, shaped into charming stars perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe was a hit at our last Christmas party bringing elegance and freshness to the appetizer table.
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
Pin It This recipe always brings smiles when shared with family during the festive season
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 25 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 12 g per serving
Pin It This light and festive appetizer adds a fresh touch to any holiday table
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What is the best way to slice cucumbers for this dish?
Thin, even slices about 4 mm thick ensure the cucumber stars hold their shape and have a crisp texture.
- → Can I prepare the cucumber stars in advance?
Yes, you can slice and cut the stars ahead, but keep them on paper towels to absorb moisture and assemble shortly before serving.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
- → What flavors complement the dill and cheese mixture?
Lemon juice adds brightness, while salt and pepper balance the creaminess and enhance the fresh dill aroma.
- → Is there a recommended garnish for presentation?
Finely diced red bell pepper and extra dill sprigs add festive color and a fresh herbal note.
- → What occasion suits these cucumber stars best?
Ideal for holiday gatherings and festive celebrations as a light, refreshing appetizer or bite-sized snack.