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
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2 large cucumbers, thickly sliced into ½-inch rounds
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8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley), finely chopped
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1 tsp lemon juice
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½ tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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12–15 cherry tomatoes, halved
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Optional garnish: extra fresh herbs or paprika for sprinkling
Instructions
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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).
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Make the herbed cream cheese: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
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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.
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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.
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Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with extra herbs or paprika if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
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For a lighter version, replace part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
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You can prepare the cream cheese mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate until assembling.
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Use different herbs to match your flavor preference—basil, tarragon, or mint work beautifully.
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Make sure cucumbers are dry before assembling to prevent watery bites.
Tips
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Presentation: Piping the cream cheese with a decorative tip makes them look fancy for events.
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Flavor boost: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the cream cheese for a subtle kick.
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Make-ahead tip: Assemble no more than 2–3 hours before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
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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.)
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Calories: 35
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Protein: 1 g
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Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
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Fat: 3 g
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Fiber: 0.3 g
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Sugar: 0.8 g
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Sodium: 40 mg
Benefits
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Low-carb & keto-friendly – great for those avoiding bread-based snacks.
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Hydrating – cucumbers are high in water content, helping with hydration.
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Rich in antioxidants – fresh herbs and tomatoes add vitamins and phytonutrients.
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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.