What is the best way to slice the bell peppers?

Cut off tops and bottoms, then slice peppers into wide, flat strips about 2 cm thick for easy shaping.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, mix cream cheese, sour cream, herbs, and garlic in advance; keep refrigerated until assembly.

Use a thin strip of bell pepper or a chive stem wrapped around the center to hold the bow shape.

Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

Pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs add festive color and a touch of fresh herbal brightness.

A festive and colorful vegetarian appetizer featuring sweet bell peppers shaped into charming Christmas bows, perfect for holiday gatherings.

This appetizer always brightens up our holiday table and impresses guests with its charming look and delicious flavor.

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)

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.

Making these with my family has become a beloved tradition that adds fun and creativity to our holiday preparations.

Filling variations include adding finely chopped nuts sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra texture and flavor.

Sharp knife Cutting board Mixing bowl Spoon

Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream). Check all processed ingredients for possible allergens if serving guests with sensitivities.

This appetizer is not only visually stunning but also deliciously fresh making it perfect for your holiday celebrations.

→ What is the best way to slice the bell peppers?: Cut off tops and bottoms, then slice peppers into wide, flat strips about 2 cm thick for easy shaping.
→ Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?: Yes, mix cream cheese, sour cream, herbs, and garlic in advance; keep refrigerated until assembly.
→ How do I secure the pepper bows?: Use a thin strip of bell pepper or a chive stem wrapped around the center to hold the bow shape.
→ Are there alternatives for the dairy filling?: Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
→ What garnishes complement these bell pepper bows?: Pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs add festive color and a touch of fresh herbal brightness.