Save to Pinterest A festive, refreshing appetizer featuring crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and aromatic dill, shaped into charming stars perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer has become a holiday favorite in my family, loved for its fresh flavors and charming presentation.
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 a special sparkle to our holiday parties, creating joyful moments as everyone admires and enjoys these delightful stars.
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 
These cucumber and dill stars are a fresh and festive addition to your holiday spread sure to impress every guest.
Recipe Q&A
- → How thin should the cucumber slices be?
Slices should be about 4 mm thick to hold shape while remaining crisp and easy to bite.
- → Can I prepare the cucumber stars in advance?
Yes, slice and cut the cucumbers beforehand, then store them on paper towels to absorb moisture before assembly.
- → What alternatives exist for the cream cheese mixture?
Plant-based cream cheese and sour cream can be used for a vegan option without compromising texture.
- → How do I keep the stars from getting soggy?
Place sliced cucumbers on paper towels to remove excess water and assemble just before serving or after chilling briefly.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors best?
Finely diced red bell pepper adds color, while fresh dill sprigs enhance the aromatic profile.