Save It A festive and colorful vegetarian appetizer featuring sweet bell peppers shaped into charming Christmas bows, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe is a holiday favorite in my family, always impressing guests with its vibrant look and fresh 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 It Making these bows together is a fun activity and a great way to kick off our holiday celebrations.
Notes
Filling variations include 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 It This appetizer adds a festive touch to any holiday table and can be prepared ahead to save time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the bell pepper strips into bows?
Slice the peppers into wide, flat strips and use the more flexible pieces. Fold both ends towards the center forming loops, then secure with a thin pepper strip or chive stem.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
Yes, assemble shortly before serving to keep the pepper strips crisp and visually appealing.
- → What fillings complement the bell peppers best?
A creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs, and garlic balances the sweet crispness of the peppers for a flavorful bite.
- → Are there alternative garnishes to use?
Pomegranate seeds and fresh dill add color and a fresh note, but chopped nuts or sun-dried tomatoes can also enhance texture and taste.
- → Is this suitable for vegan diets?
Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream to make a vegan-friendly version without altering the overall flavor profile.