Herbed Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites

Fresh cucumber rounds topped with a creamy, savory herbed cheese spread. They’re easy to make, naturally low-carb, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light party bite.

Ingredients

For the cucumber rounds

• 1 large English cucumber or 2 medium cucumbers
• ¼ teaspoon salt, optional

For the herbed spread

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped cucumber or cucumber pulp, optional
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dried dill, optional
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

Optional additions

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped capers
• 1–2 tablespoons crumbled feta
• A pinch of garlic powder
• Lemon zest
• Fresh chives
• Crushed walnuts or pecans for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the cucumber

1. Wash and dry the cucumber.
2. Slice into rounds approximately ¼–½ inch thick.
3. Arrange the slices on a plate or tray.
4. If the cucumber is particularly watery, lightly sprinkle with salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
5. Pat dry with paper towels.

2. Make the herbed spread

1. Place softened cream cheese in a bowl.
2. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add dill, parsley, green onion, garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
5. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
6. Fold in capers or feta if using.

For the best flavor, refrigerate the spread for 20–30 minutes before assembling.

3. Assemble

1. Place the cucumber rounds on a serving platter.
2. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the herbed mixture onto each cucumber slice.
3. Spread gently with a small knife or spoon.
4. Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, chives, lemon zest, or a tiny sprinkle of black pepper.

4. Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Information

Approximate nutrition will vary according to the cream cheese and toppings used.

For about 16 pieces, without optional nuts:

• Calories: ~45–55 per piece
• Protein: ~1–2 g
• Carbohydrates: ~1–2 g
• Fiber: ~0.2 g
• Fat: ~4–5 g

The cucumber contributes very few carbohydrates, making these a naturally low-carb appetizer.

Nut Information 🌰

The basic recipe contains no nuts.

If you’re serving someone with a nut allergy, use the basic recipe and avoid the optional walnut or pecan garnish. Also check packaged cream cheese, yogurt, and other ingredients for allergy statements if necessary.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Bites

• Use English cucumber: It has fewer large seeds and stays crisp.
• Dry the cucumber: Excess moisture can make the spread slide off.
• Use softened cream cheese: It creates a much smoother spread.
• Don’t make the cucumber slices too thin: Slightly thicker rounds hold the topping better.
• Chill the spread first: The herbs have more time to flavor the cheese.
• For extra flavor: Add lemon zest and a few finely chopped capers.
• For more protein: Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the sour cream.

Make-Ahead Instructions

The herbed spread can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

For the crispiest cucumber bites, slice the cucumbers and assemble them shortly before serving.

Q&A

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes. Plain Greek yogurt works very well and adds extra protein.

Can I use whipped cream cheese?

Yes. It makes the spread especially light and fluffy.

Can I use cottage cheese?

Yes. Blend cottage cheese until smooth before combining it with the herbs for a higher-protein version.

How do I stop the cucumbers from becoming watery?

Pat the cucumber slices dry before adding the spread. You can also lightly salt them, wait several minutes, and pat them dry again.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free yogurt or sour cream.

Can I add chicken?

Yes. Finely chopped cooked chicken can be mixed into the spread for a more substantial snack.

Can I add smoked salmon?

Yes. A small piece of smoked salmon on top makes these excellent appetizer bites.

How long do they last after assembly?

For the best texture, eat them within a few hours. Keep them refrigerated until serving.

Can I use dried herbs?

Yes. Use smaller amounts because dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh dill and parsley give the freshest flavor.

Are these keto-friendly?

The basic version is relatively low in carbohydrates and can fit into a low-carb eating pattern. Check the nutrition label of your cream cheese and yogurt for the exact carbohydrate amount.

What else can I put on top?

Try smoked salmon, feta, olives, capers, cherry tomato pieces, turkey, fresh dill, or a sprinkle of paprika.