Looking for a quick, elegant, and absolutely mouthwatering appetizer that screams summer? Get ready to wow your guests with these irresistible Summer Cucumber Bites on a Stick! These bite-sized delights are not just a snack, but a culinary experience that combines crisp cucumbers, creamy dill-infused cheese, and a presentation that will make everyone at your gathering stop and stare. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a bridal shower, or just craving a cool and sophisticated treat, these cucumber bites are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 24 toothpicks
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers into thick rounds, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Aim for uniformity to ensure even presentation and ease of assembly.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and chopped fresh dill. Use a spatula or a fork to mix them together until the dill is evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
- Season the cream cheese mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly incorporated.
- Take a cucumber slice and place a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture on top of it. You can use a small spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative look.
- Once the cream cheese is added, take a toothpick and insert it through the center of the cucumber slice, securing the cream cheese in place. Repeat this process for all cucumber slices, creating a total of 24 bites.
- Arrange the completed cucumber bites on a serving platter. You can garnish with additional fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor, if desired.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or snack, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips
- Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. English or Persian cucumbers work wonderfully as they have fewer seeds and a more delicate skin.
- For a perfectly smooth cream cheese mixture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with dill.
- If you want a more professional look, use a piping bag with a star tip to add the cream cheese for a more elegant presentation.
- Chill your cucumber slices before assembling to keep them extra crisp and refreshing.
- For added variety, experiment with different herbs like chives or basil instead of dill.
- If preparing in advance, assemble the bites no more than an hour before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, you can substitute the cream cheese with herbed goat cheese or a Greek yogurt mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 10kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
