Save Celebrate the holiday season with a burst of fresh flavors and whimsical presentation. These Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees transform crisp cucumber ribbons into charming little festive trees, beautifully garnished with creamy herb-infused cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. They’re an inviting and light appetizer that brings a touch of elegance and fun to any holiday party table.
Save This appetizer effortlessly combines crunch and creaminess, making it both visually captivating and delightful to taste. The combination of cucumbers, herbed cream cheese, and bright cherry tomatoes provides a palate-pleasing contrast, while the playful tree shapes add a festive touch.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 2 large English cucumbers
- 6 cherry tomatoes - Dairy
- 100 g cream cheese, softened - Herbs & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Garnishes & Assembly
- 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 bright flavor, try mixing a pinch of lemon zest into the cream cheese before assembling. This small addition elevates the herbaceous notes and adds a delightful zing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute cream cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different creamy texture and flavor. For a vegan twist, plant-based cream cheese varieties work wonderfully without sacrificing taste. To accommodate gluten-free needs, use gluten-free pretzel sticks to maintain the crunch.
Serviervorschläge
Present these cucumber ribbon trees standing upright on a festive platter to showcase their unique shapes. Serve immediately to keep the pretzel sticks crisp and the cucumbers fresh.
Save This festive appetizer offers both charm and ease, making it a winning choice for holiday celebrations. Its quick preparation and fresh flavor profile invite everyone to enjoy a lighter, vibrant start to any party.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the best tool for making cucumber ribbons?
A mandoline slicer or vegetable peeler works best to create thin, even cucumber ribbons perfect for folding.
- → Can the creamy base be substituted?
Yes, cream cheese can be replaced with goat cheese, ricotta, or plant-based alternatives for different flavors or dietary needs.
- → How do I prevent pretzel sticks from softening?
Serve the assembled cucumber trees immediately to keep the pretzel sticks crisp and intact.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this appetizer?
Use gluten-free pretzel sticks to accommodate gluten-free diets without compromising texture.
- → What herbs are recommended for the cheese mixture?
Fresh dill and chives add a bright, aromatic touch that complements cucumber and tomato flavors.