Pin this Celebrate the holidays with a burst of freshness and creativity by making Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees. These whimsical appetizers bring together crisp cucumber ribbons artfully shaped into festive trees, adorned with creamy herb-infused cheese, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and delicate fresh herbs. Perfect for a party starter, they impress guests with both beauty and flavor without any cooking involved.
Pin this This recipe combines simplicity with elegance, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels. The use of fresh dill and chives in the cream cheese adds a bright herbal note that complements the subtly sweet cucumber. Each cucumber ribbon is carefully folded to mimic the layers of a Christmas tree, creating an appetizer that’s both artful and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers
- 6 cherry tomatoes
- 100 g cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 small pretzel sticks
- 12 star-shaped yellow bell pepper slices (optional, for tree toppers)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline or a vegetable peeler, slice the cucumbers lengthwise into long, thin ribbons.
- 2. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese with dill, chives, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Cut each cherry tomato in half.
- 4. To assemble each tree, gently thread one cucumber ribbon onto a pretzel stick, folding it back and forth to create a zigzag, tree-like shape.
- 5. Pipe or spoon a small dollop of the herbed cream cheese on the base of each tree.
- 6. Top each tree with a half cherry tomato or a star-shaped bell pepper slice for decoration.
- 7. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- 8. Arrange the trees upright on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra zing, try adding a pinch of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture. This will brighten the flavor and add a subtle citrus aroma that complements the herbs.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to substitute goat cheese or ricotta for the cream cheese if you prefer a different texture or tang. For a vegan alternative, plant-based cream cheese works wonderfully without sacrificing flavor. Using gluten-free pretzel sticks allows this appetizer to fit various dietary needs.
Serviervorschläge
Arrange these cucumber trees upright on a decorative serving platter to showcase their shape. They pair nicely with other light appetizers and can be served with a variety of dips or simply enjoyed on their own as a refreshing starter.
Pin this This appetizer not only brings a festive flair to your table but also invites guests to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients in a playful presentation. Delight your family and friends with these charming cucumber ribbon Christmas trees that celebrate the spirit of the season with every bite.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of cucumber is best for ribbons?
English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, making long, smooth ribbons perfect for shaping.
- → How can I prevent cucumber ribbons from breaking?
Use a sharp mandoline or peeler and slice evenly to maintain ribbon flexibility and avoid snapping during assembly.
- → What are good alternatives to cream cheese here?
Goat cheese, ricotta, or plant-based cream cheese provide similar creaminess and pair well with fresh herbs.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
They are best served fresh to keep pretzel sticks crisp, but cucumber ribbons can be sliced and herbed cheese mixed a few hours before assembling.
- → What garnishes add extra flavor and texture?
Fresh dill, chives, and a sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds enhance both taste and visual appeal.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the base?
Gluten-free pretzel sticks or breadsticks can be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions.