Pin this 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 for its simplicity and vibrant look on the appetizer table.
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.
Pin this This appetizer always sparks joy and conversation during our family holiday gatherings.
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 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 3 g per serving
Pin this Serve chilled and enjoy the festive colors and flavors that bring holiday cheer.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape the bell peppers into bows?
Slice the bell peppers into wide, flexible strips, then fold each strip's ends toward the center to form loops resembling bows. Secure the center with a small pepper strip or herb stem.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bows a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Add garnishes like pomegranate seeds and dill just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for the filling?
Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream to make the filling suitable for vegan diets without compromising flavor.
- → What are some garnish options to enhance presentation?
Pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs add color and a burst of flavor, complementing the creamy filling and vibrant bell peppers.
- → How can I add texture or flavor variations?
Incorporate finely chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives into the filling for added texture and depth of flavor.