Save Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees bring a burst of festive cheer and refreshing crunch to your holiday table. These whimsical appetizer trees crafted from crisp cucumber ribbons are foldable works of art that are as delightful to eat as they are to behold. Topped with creamy herbed cheese, bright cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, they make the perfect light starter to impress your guests and celebrate the season with a healthy, colorful bite.
Save Each tree is a playful combination of texture and flavor: the crisp coolness of cucumber paired with creamy, herb-infused cheese and the burst of juicy tomato makes for a delightful contrast that keeps guests coming back for more.
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 a burst of extra brightness, mix a pinch of lemon zest into the cream cheese before assembling. This simple addition elevates the flavor and adds a fresh aroma that complements the herbs beautifully.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to substitute the cream cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different creamy texture. For a vegan version, plant-based cream cheese works wonderfully. Use gluten-free pretzel sticks if needed to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these charming cucumber trees upright on a festive platter for a colorful centerpiece that invites guests to nibble. Perfect as a light appetizer before the main course or as part of a holiday buffet spread.
Save These Spiral Cucumber Ribbon Christmas Trees are both festive and fresh, making them an ideal addition to your holiday repertoire. With their simple assembly and delightful taste, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite for celebrations year after year.
