Save Celebrate the festive season with a delightful and visually stunning appetizer: Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees. This refreshing bite combines the crispness of English cucumbers with the creamy richness of herbed cheese, accented by the vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs that bring holiday cheer to your table. Easy to assemble and perfect for holiday parties, these whimsical trees are sure to impress your guests and elevate your appetizer spread.
Save The combination of crisp cucumber ribbons folded into charming tree shapes alongside a delicately herbed cream cheese base makes this appetizer both elegant and approachable. The colorful cherry tomatoes or bell pepper stars add a festive pop, while the crunchy pretzel stick trunks provide an unexpected textural contrast.
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 burst of flavor, incorporate a pinch of fresh lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture. This simple enhancement brightens the taste and pairs beautifully with the herbs.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer, substitute the cream cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and tang. For a vegan alternative, use plant-based cream cheese and gluten-free pretzel sticks where needed.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these charming cucumber trees immediately for the best presentation and texture. They make a wonderful centerpiece for holiday platters and pair beautifully with sparkling beverages or crisp white wines.
Save Bring a fresh, playful touch to your holiday menu with these Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees. Their effortless beauty and lively taste will enchant guests and offer a light, delicious break from the richness of other festive dishes.
Common Questions
- → What type of cucumber works best for ribbons?
English cucumbers are ideal as they have fewer seeds and firmer flesh, making smooth, flexible ribbons.
- → Can I substitute cream cheese with another spread?
Yes, goat cheese, ricotta, or plant-based alternatives work well for versatility and dietary needs.
- → How do I create the spiral tree shape?
Thread long cucumber ribbons onto pretzel sticks, folding them back and forth to mimic a zigzag pine tree form.
- → Are the sesame or poppy seeds necessary?
They are optional but add a slight crunch and enhance visual appeal on top of the trees.
- → How should these be served to maintain texture?
Arrange the assembled trees upright and serve immediately to keep pretzel sticks crisp and cucumbers fresh.