Save Celebrate the season with these delightful Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees, a festive and refreshing appetizer that brings a burst of crunch and color to your holiday table. Each whimsical tree is crafted from crisp cucumber ribbons, layered into charming zigzags and adorned with creamy herbed cheese, bright cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Perfectly portioned and visually enchanting, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests and elevate any festive gathering with a touch of elegance and fun.
Save This appetizer is as versatile as it is charming. The combination of creamy herbed cheese paired with crisp cucumber and the subtle sweetness of cherry tomatoes adds layers of texture and flavor that delight the palate. Whether serving at a casual family gathering or a sophisticated holiday party, these mini trees offer a lovely conversation starter and a healthy alternative to heavier starters.
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 added flavor, try mixing a pinch of lemon zest into the cream cheese before spreading. This adds a subtle brightness that complements the fresh herbs beautifully. Using a mandoline slicer can help ensure uniform cucumber ribbons for a neater presentation.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute goat cheese or ricotta for the cream cheese if you prefer a different texture or flavor profile. For a vegan variation, use plant-based cream cheese alternatives. Gluten-free pretzel sticks can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on crunch.
Serviervorschläge
Arrange these Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees upright on a colorful holiday-themed platter to enhance their festive appeal. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light sparkling beverage for an elegant appetizer course. Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the pretzels and the freshness of the cucumbers.
Save With their festive charm and refreshing flavors, these Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees make holiday entertaining both beautiful and effortless. Enjoy the vibrant colors and light, creamy textures as you celebrate with friends and family.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I create cucumber ribbons for this dish?
Use a mandoline slicer or vegetable peeler to slice cucumbers lengthwise into long, thin ribbons that are flexible enough to fold into shapes.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Substitute cream cheese with goat cheese, ricotta, or plant-based cheese alternatives for different flavors or dietary needs.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
For best freshness and to avoid soggy pretzels, assemble just before serving.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the base?
Yes, use gluten-free pretzel sticks to maintain a gluten-free version without compromising presentation.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor in this dish?
Fresh dill and chives are combined with cream cheese, adding brightness and herbaceous notes that complement the cucumber.