Blooming Tulip Veggie Cups

A vibrant and fresh spring appetizer featuring crisp vegetables arranged as edible tulip blooms filled with a creamy herb cheese Perfect for festive gatherings or light starters

This recipe brings a burst of color and flavor to any party My family loves the creative presentation and the light herb cheese filling

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 8 large red or yellow bell peppers 8 long green onions (with stalks) 1 small cucumber 8 cherry tomatoes
• Filling: 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese softened 2 tbsp sour cream 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley 1/2 tsp garlic powder Salt and black pepper to taste
• Garnish: Extra chives or microgreens

Instructions

Step 1:

Wash all vegetables thoroughly

Step 2:

Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise keeping the stem intact to resemble tulip petals Remove seeds and membranes carefully

Step 3:

Trim the green onions to about 12 cm (5 in) and gently slice the white ends lengthwise halfway up creating a stem effect

Step 4:

Cut cucumber into thin sticks about 8 cm (3 in) long

Step 5:

In a bowl mix cream cheese sour cream chives dill parsley garlic powder salt and pepper until smooth and well combined

Step 6:

Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the hollowed bell pepper halves

Step 7:

Insert a green onion stem into each filled pepper cup Tuck a cucumber stick and a cherry tomato into the cheese filling for extra color and texture

Step 8:

Arrange on a platter garnish with extra chives or microgreens and serve immediately

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This dish always creates a lovely family moment especially when kids get to help arranging the veggie cups their smiles are priceless

Required Tools

Sharp knife Mixing bowl Spoon or piping bag Cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream) Gluten-free always check labels to ensure no cross-contamination in packaged cheeses

Nutritional Information

Calories 110 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 3 g

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These veggie cups are a delightful way to start any meal and can be customized to your taste

Cooking Questions

→ How do I keep the bell pepper cups fresh?

Store them covered in the refrigerator and fill them just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese filling?

Yes, plant-based cream cheese works well for a dairy-free version, preserving the creamy texture and flavor.

→ What vegetables work best for garnish inside the cups?

Cucumber sticks and cherry tomatoes add freshness and color; feel free to add diced radish or shredded carrot for extra crunch.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged ingredients for cross-contamination risks.

→ How do I achieve the tulip look with green onions?

Trim green onions to about 5 inches and slice the white ends lengthwise halfway up to create a delicate stem effect inside the pepper halves.