Save A festive and colorful vegetarian appetizer featuring sweet bell peppers shaped into charming Christmas bows, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer quickly became a favorite at our holiday parties due to its vibrant look and refreshing taste.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 large red bell peppers, 2 large yellow bell peppers, 2 large green bell peppers
- Filling: 200 g cream cheese, softened, 2 tbsp sour cream, 1 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 garlic clove minced, Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds (optional), Fresh dill sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry the bell peppers. Cut off the tops and bottoms then carefully slice each pepper into wide flat strips about 2 cm (¾ inch) wide. Set aside the most flexible strips for shaping bows.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl mix the cream cheese sour cream chives parsley and minced garlic until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 3:
- Lay a strip of bell pepper flat. Place a heaping teaspoon of the filling in the center. Fold both ends toward the center to form two loops resembling a bow. Secure the center with a small strip of bell pepper or a chive stem wrapping it around and tucking under the bow.
- Step 4:
- Repeat with remaining pepper strips and filling until all bows are formed.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the bows on a serving platter. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs if using.
Save My family loves the festive look of these appetizers; they always spark conversations and compliments.
Notes
Use any color combination of bell peppers to match your holiday theme. Filling variations: Add finely chopped nuts sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra texture and flavor.
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Mixing bowl Spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream). Check all processed ingredients for possible allergens if serving guests with sensitivities.
Save
This appetizer offers a perfect blend of taste and holiday spirit sure to impress your guests.
Common Questions
- → How do I shape the bell peppers into bows?
Slice bell peppers into wide strips and fold each end towards the center to form loops, then secure with a small strip or chive to keep the bow shape intact.
- → Can I prepare the bows in advance?
Yes, assemble the bows shortly before serving and keep them refrigerated. Cover tightly to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What variations can enhance the filling?
You can add finely chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to the cream cheese mixture for added texture and flavor depth.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for the filling?
Replace cream cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives to maintain creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based.
- → How should I select bell peppers for best results?
Choose firm, fresh bell peppers with vibrant colors and enough flexibility in the strips to shape easily without breaking.