Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato

Description

These fresh and colorful cucumber bites are the perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and tang. Crisp cucumber rounds are topped with a swirl of herbed cream cheese and a juicy cherry tomato half, creating a bite-sized appetizer that’s both refreshing and elegant. Ideal for parties, brunches, or as a healthy snack, they’re as pretty as they are tasty.

Ingredients for Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cream Cheese and Cherry Tomato

• 2 large cucumbers, thickly sliced into ½-inch rounds

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• 2 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley), finely chopped

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 12–15 cherry tomatoes, halved

• Optional garnish: extra fresh herbs or paprika for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the cucumbers: Wash and slice cucumbers into thick rounds. Use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop out a shallow well in the center of each slice (don’t go all the way through).

2. Make the herbed cream cheese: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Pipe or spoon the filling: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag with a star tip for a decorative touch, or simply spoon it into the cucumber wells.

4. Top with cherry tomatoes: Place a halved cherry tomato (cut side up or down depending on look desired) on top of each filled cucumber slice.

5. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with extra herbs or paprika if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

• For a lighter version, replace part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

• You can prepare the cream cheese mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate until assembling.

• Use different herbs to match your flavor preference—basil, tarragon, or mint work beautifully.

• Make sure cucumbers are dry before assembling to prevent watery bites.

Tips

• Presentation: Piping the cream cheese with a decorative tip makes them look fancy for events.

• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the cream cheese for a subtle kick.

• Make-ahead tip: Assemble no more than 2–3 hours before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.

• Kid-friendly twist: Replace cherry tomatoes with sliced olives or mini cheese cubes for picky eaters.

Servings

Makes about 24 cucumber bites (serves 6–8 as an appetizer).

Nutritional Info (per bite, approx.)

• Calories: 35

• Protein: 1 g

• Carbohydrates: 1.5 g

• Fat: 3 g

• Fiber: 0.3 g

• Sugar: 0.8 g

• Sodium: 40 mg

Benefits

• Low-carb & keto-friendly – great for those avoiding bread-based snacks.

• Hydrating – cucumbers are high in water content, helping with hydration.

• Rich in antioxidants – fresh herbs and tomatoes add vitamins and phytonutrients.

• Easy to digest – light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather.

Q & A

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free cream cheese or hummus instead of regular cream cheese.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, but fresh herbs give the best flavor.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: They are best eaten fresh. If you must store, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, but the cucumbers may release water.

Q: Can I use other toppings?
A: Absolutely—try smoked salmon, sliced radishes, or roasted red peppers instead of cherry tomatoes.