Save A festive, crisp winter salad served in delicate cucumber cups, shaped like snowflakes and filled with a creamy, tangy filling. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or party snack.
I first served this salad at a holiday party and everyone was enchanted by the beautiful presentation and refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 3 large cucumbers, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely diced celery, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- Dairy: 1/2 cup cream cheese softened, 2 tbsp sour cream
- Pantry: 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds, 1 tbsp finely chopped chives
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and peel the cucumbers. Cut them crosswise into 2-inch thick rounds.
- Step 2:
- Using a small snowflake-shaped cookie cutter, carefully cut each round into a snowflake shape.
- Step 3:
- With a melon baller or small spoon, hollow out the center of each snowflake, leaving a 1/4-inch thick base and sides to form a cup. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess moisture.
- Step 4:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Step 5:
- Gently fold in red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and dill.
- Step 6:
- Spoon or pipe the filling into each cucumber cup.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chives.
- Step 8:
- Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Save This salad often brings smiles as family and friends enjoy the unique presentation together during the holiday season.
Required Tools
Snowflake-shaped cookie cutter small, Melon baller or small spoon, Mixing bowl, Knife and cutting board, Piping bag optional
Allergen Information
Contains dairy cream cheese sour cream. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories 45. Total Fat 3 g. Carbohydrates 3 g. Protein 1 g per serving.
Save This winter salad is the perfect refreshing starter to brighten any festive gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I shape the cucumber cups?
Cut cucumbers into 2-inch rounds, then use a small snowflake-shaped cookie cutter to create the cup shapes. Hollow out the centers carefully to leave a sturdy base and sides.
- → Can I prepare the cucumber cups in advance?
Yes, you can make the cucumber cups a few hours ahead and store them refrigerated until ready to fill and serve.
- → What alternatives can I use for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tangy creaminess.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the filling?
Incorporate finely diced apple or pear into the filling mixture for additional crunch and sweetness.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to confirm to ensure safety.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Adding pomegranate seeds and finely chopped chives enhances both the visual appeal and flavor complexity.