Welcome to the world of fresh and flavorful snack bites that are bound to be the star of any gathering! These Cucumber Bites with Herb Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato are a delightful burst of creaminess combined with the juicy bite of cherry tomatoes — making your taste buds dance with joy. This recipe is not just simple to assemble but presents beautifully on any serving platter. The crispness of cucumbers pairs seamlessly with the smooth and tangy cream cheese, enhanced by the earthy aroma of fresh dill or thyme. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for an afternoon pick-me-up, these bites are a perfect choice. Add to that the hint of paprika or Cajun seasoning, and you’ve got a snack that hits all the right notes. Perfect for health-conscious eaters or those short on time, this dish is a winner when it comes to flavor and ease of preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Bites Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Cucumber Bites with Herb Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato recipe:
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of cool cucumbers, creamy cheese, and juicy tomatoes is irresistible.
- Simple Preparation: No cooking required. Quick and easy assembly.
- Healthy Snack: Low in calories, high in flavor — ideal for light eating.
- Visual Appeal: A stunning addition to any appetizer board.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the assembly of these delightful cucumber bites, a little preparation goes a long way in creating a seamless cooking experience. First, ensure your kitchen workspace is clean and organized. Gather all the ingredients and tools you’ll need, including a sharp knife, a melon baller (for scooping out cucumber hollows), and a piping bag with a star tip for aesthetic presentation of the cream cheese mixture.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 long cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or thyme, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Paprika or Cajun seasoning, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Filling
Combine the softened cream cheese with ranch dressing and freshly chopped herbs in a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well-blended. Spoon the blend into a piping bag fitted with a star tip to prepare for presentation.
Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber Rounds
Thoroughly peel the cucumbers and use a fork to score lines along each side for an added texture. Slice the cucumbers into 1-inch rounds. Using a melon baller, carefully scoop out a shallow crater on one side of every cucumber piece to cradle the filling.
Step 3: Fill and Garnish
Pipe the cream cheese mixture into the prepared cucumber craters, letting the filling rise about half an inch above the surface. Gently press a cherry tomato half into the center of the filling. Finish each piece with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of paprika or Cajun seasoning for added flavor. Place the bites in the fridge to chill slightly before serving, letting the flavors meld together.
Variations
- Protein: For extra protein, consider adding a slice of smoked salmon on top of the tomato half.
- Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetable toppings such as slivered bell peppers or olives.
- Spices: Swap out the paprika or Cajun seasoning for lemon zest or a sprinkle of chives for a fresh kick.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to ease blending the creamy mixture.
- Leaving the cucumber slices with peel lines adds a visual touch and an extra layer of texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cucumber bites chilled for the best tasting experience.
- Pair them with a light, crisp white wine to complement the fresh flavors.
Tips
- Prepare the cucumber bites close to serving time to maintain their fresh crunch.
- Use freshly picked herbs for the most aromatic and riotous flavor experience.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 80 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 125mg
FAQs
Can I prepare these cucumber bites in advance?
For best results, prepare them as close to the serving time as possible. However, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and cover it in the fridge a few hours ahead.
What herbs aside from dill or thyme can be used?
Other aromatic herbs like basil or chives can be excellent substitutes, offering a different flavor profile.
Are there alternatives to cream cheese?
A mixture of ricotta or goat cheese in place of cream cheese can provide a distinct taste while keeping the creamy texture.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within a day due to the freshness of the vegetables.
Conclusion
The beauty of these Cucumber Bites with Herb Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato lies in their simplicity, yet sophisticated flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests. The harmonious blend of crunchy, creamy, and tangy elements makes this snack not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with variations, and leave your feedback in the comments. Share this delightful appetizer with your friends or enjoy it as a refreshing, healthy snack. With endless possibilities in terms of flavors and combinations, these cucumber bites are bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
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Cucumber Bites with Herb Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
Description
The beauty of these Cucumber Bites with Herb Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato lies in their simplicity, yet sophisticated flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 long cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or thyme, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Paprika or Cajun seasoning, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese with ranch dressing and freshly chopped herbs in a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well-blended. Spoon the blend into a piping bag fitted with a star tip to prepare for presentation.
- Thoroughly peel the cucumbers and use a fork to score lines along each side for an added texture. Slice the cucumbers into 1-inch rounds. Using a melon baller, carefully scoop out a shallow crater on one side of every cucumber piece to cradle the filling.
- Pipe the cream cheese mixture into the prepared cucumber craters, letting the filling rise about half an inch above the surface. Gently press a cherry tomato half into the center of the filling. Finish each piece with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of paprika or Cajun seasoning for added flavor. Place the bites in the fridge to chill slightly before serving, letting the flavors meld together.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within a day due to the freshness of the vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 80 per serving
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Protein: 2 g