Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dilly Cucumber Bites are not only quick and simple to make but also incredibly versatile. The cool, crisp cucumbers provide the perfect base for the creamy dill spread, creating a delightful contrast in textures. The fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, while the cream cheese brings a rich, smooth texture. This recipe is perfect for those who want a healthier, low-calorie option without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these bites will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
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1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh dill sprigs for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Cucumber: Slice the cucumber into 1/2-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a serving platter. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help keep the bites from becoming soggy.
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Make the Dill Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until smooth. Add the fresh dill, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine until the spread is creamy and well-seasoned.
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Assemble the Bites: Spoon or pipe a small amount of the dill spread onto each cucumber slice. If you’re using a piping bag or plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off, it will help you get a clean, even topping.
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Garnish: If desired, garnish the top of each bite with a small sprig of fresh dill for extra flavor and a pretty presentation.
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Serve: These bites are best served immediately, but they can be refrigerated for up to 30 minutes before serving if you want to make them ahead of time.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6 servings
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Preparation time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein: For a heartier snack, add a slice of smoked salmon or cooked shrimp on top of the dill spread.
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Vegan Dilly Cucumber Bites: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and Greek yogurt alternative to make these bites vegan-friendly.
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes to the dill spread for a spicy kick.
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Cheese Variations: You can use goat cheese or ricotta in place of cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumbers may release moisture over time, so it’s best to eat them fresh.
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Reheating: These cucumber bites are meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them. Simply store them in the fridge and enjoy them when you’re ready.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the dill spread and slice the cucumbers ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
Can I use a different type of herb instead of dill?
While dill is the signature flavor in this recipe, you can use other herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon if you prefer a different taste.
Can I make the dill spread without cream cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as the base for the spread if you want a lighter version. You can also substitute with avocado for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
Are these cucumber bites gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I keep the cucumber slices from getting soggy?
Make sure to pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before assembling the bites. This will help remove excess moisture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Can I add other toppings to these bites?
Absolutely! You can add thin slices of smoked salmon, a piece of prosciutto, or even a slice of boiled egg for extra flavor.
How long can I store leftover cucumber bites?
These are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumber may lose its crispness over time, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.
How do I make the spread more flavorful?
You can add additional ingredients like lemon zest, chopped scallions, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Can I use this dill spread on other vegetables?
Yes, the dill spread works wonderfully on other crunchy vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers. It can also be used as a dip for chips or crackers.
How many cucumber slices should I prepare per person?
Typically, 4-6 cucumber bites per person should be enough for a snack or appetizer, depending on the size of your event and other food offerings.
Conclusion
Dilly Cucumber Bites are the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and creamy, making them a delightful and healthy appetizer. They come together in minutes and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying a light snack, or looking for a fresh addition to a meal, these bites are sure to impress. Enjoy the refreshing crunch of cucumber, the creamy dill spread, and the burst of flavor in every bite!
Dilly Cucumber Bites
Dilly Cucumber Bites are a fresh, tangy, and light appetizer that combines crunchy cucumber slices with a creamy dill topping. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or any occasion where you need a refreshing, flavorful bite. With a burst of dill flavor in every bite, these cucumber bites are sure to impress your guests!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish (optional, for extra dill flavor)
- Fresh dill sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a serving platter.
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
- For extra dill flavor, stir in the dill pickle relish if using.
- Spoon or pipe a dollop of the creamy dill mixture onto each cucumber slice.
- Garnish with fresh dill sprigs if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a serving platter.
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
- For extra dill flavor, stir in the dill pickle relish if using.
- Spoon or pipe a dollop of the creamy dill mixture onto each cucumber slice.
- Garnish with fresh dill sprigs if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.