Save A festive, colorful appetizer platter featuring a creamy cheese spread, arranged to resemble twinkling Christmas lights—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer spread has become a holiday favorite in my family as it combines festive appearance with simple preparation and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- Cheese Spread: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1/2 cup) sour cream, 120 g (1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 small garlic clove minced, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp dried chives, salt to taste
- Decorations: 12 16 mini sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, green), 1/2 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (various colors) halved, 1/2 cucumber sliced into thin rounds, fresh parsley or dill sprigs, black olives (for light sockets) sliced, 1 bunch fresh chives or green onions (for wires)
- To Serve: Gluten-free crackers or baguette slices, assorted vegetable dippers (carrot sticks, celery etc)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl combine cream cheese sour cream cheddar garlic black pepper paprika chives and salt Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2:
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly on a large serving platter shaping it into a wide oval or rectangle to resemble a string of lights.
- Step 3:
- Arrange fresh chives or green onion strips across the spread in a winding looping pattern to mimic a string of lights.
- Step 4:
- Slice mini bell peppers lengthwise and remove seeds Place pepper halves tomato halves cucumber slices and olives at intervals along the wire to represent Christmas bulbs Top each bulb with a small olive slice to mimic the socket.
- Step 5:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill sprigs for a festive touch.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately with crackers and vegetable dippers.
Save This appetizer always brings smiles and conversation when enjoyed around the table during holiday celebrations.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl spatula large serving platter knife cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream cheddar) Gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers Check packaged products for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 180 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 6 g Protein 5 g per serving
Save This festive appetizer is both fun to assemble and a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the cheese spread smooth?
Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing, then blend all ingredients thoroughly until creamy and smooth.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, prepare the cheese mixture a day ahead and assemble the vegetable decorations just before serving for freshness.
- → What vegetables work for the decorative 'lights'?
Mini bell peppers, cherry or grape tomatoes, cucumber slices, and olives provide vibrant colors and ideal shapes.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, use gluten-free crackers or baguette slices when serving to maintain gluten-free suitability.
- → How can I adapt this spread for a dairy-free option?
Substitute cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version.