Save to Pinterest A festive, refreshing appetizer featuring crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and aromatic dill, shaped into charming stars perfect for holiday gatherings.
I enjoy making these cucumber and dill stars every Christmas as they add a light and elegant touch to the party spread.
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 recipe always brings smiles and compliments whenever I serve it during holiday family gatherings.
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.
Save to Pinterest A simple yet elegant appetizer that will impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How do I prevent cucumber stars from getting soggy?
After cutting, place cucumber stars on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, keeping them crisp and fresh.
- → Can I prepare the cheese mixture in advance?
Yes, the cheese mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours to enhance flavors.
- → Are there alternative garnishes recommended?
Finely chopped chives, garlic powder, or extra dill sprigs make great garnishes enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- → Is this suitable for vegan diets?
By substituting with plant-based cream cheese and sour cream, the appetizer can be adapted for vegan preferences.
- → What beverages pair well with these cucumber and dill stars?
Light, sparkling wines or crisp white wines complement the freshness and creaminess of this dish beautifully.