Save A festive and colorful vegetarian appetizer featuring sweet bell peppers shaped into charming Christmas bows, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, always drawing compliments for both its look and flavor.
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 (⁄ 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 This appetizer always brings the family together during the holidays, sparking smiles and compliments.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 90 per serving, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 3 g
Save The Bell Pepper Christmas Bow Appetizer adds a festive touch to any holiday table with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the bell peppers into bows?
Slice the peppers into wide strips, then fold the ends toward the center to create loops resembling bows. Secure with a thin strip of pepper or chive stem.
- → Can I make this appetizer vegan?
Yes, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives for a fully plant-based version.
- → What types of bell peppers work best?
Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for vibrant color and varying sweetness.
- → Is any cooking required for this dish?
No cooking is needed. The appetizer is assembled with fresh, raw ingredients for quick preparation.
- → What garnishes complement the bell pepper bows?
Pomegranate seeds add a pop of color and sweetness, while fresh dill imparts a delicate herbal note.