Save A festive and colorful vegetarian appetizer featuring sweet bell peppers shaped into charming Christmas bows, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe became a holiday favorite in my family because it looks beautiful and tastes fresh without much effort.
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 This appetizer always brings smiles at our family gatherings, making the holidays even more special.
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
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This bell pepper bow appetizer is sure to impress your guests and add a fresh festive touch to your celebrations.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I shape the bell peppers into bows?
Slice bell peppers into wide strips, then fold each strip's ends toward the center to form loops. Secure the center with another strip or chive stem to create the bow shape.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
Yes, assemble the peppers and filling a few hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate. Add garnish just before serving for best freshness.
- → Are there variations for the filling?
You can add finely chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to the creamy herb mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- → Is this appetizer suitable for vegans?
Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream as substitutes to make the filling vegan-friendly.
- → What garnishes complement these bell pepper bows?
Pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs provide vibrant color and a fresh pop of flavor, enhancing presentation and taste.