Save 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 hit at our family Christmas parties, everyone loves the fresh flavors and fun star shapes.
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 This appetizer brings a joyful moment to our holiday table, sparking compliments and smiles from guests of all ages.
Notes
Add a pinch of garlic powder or chives for extra flavor.
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.
Save These Christmas stars add a fresh and festive touch to your holiday spread perfect for entertaining with ease.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prepare the cucumber slices for this appetizer?
Wash and slice the cucumbers lengthwise into thin, even slices approximately 4 mm thick, then cut star shapes using a cookie cutter.
- → What ingredients are mixed for the creamy topping?
A blend of softened cream cheese, sour cream, finely chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper creates the smooth topping.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to make it vegan-friendly.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients, but always verify labels for cross-contamination risks.
- → What garnish adds festive color to the stars?
Small pieces of red bell pepper and extra dill sprigs are used for decorative garnish.
- → How long can the appetizer be chilled before serving?
It can be chilled for up to 1 hour prior to serving to maintain freshness and flavor.