What type of bell peppers work best?

Use large, firm red, yellow, and green bell peppers for easy slicing and flexible strips that hold shape.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, the bows can be assembled a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but garnish just before serving for freshness.

Try variations with finely chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to add texture and flavor layers.

Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based versions to keep the filling creamy and dairy-free.

Optional pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs add vibrant color and a fresh flavor contrast.

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

I have always enjoyed making these bell pepper bows for family parties because they bring a fun and vibrant touch to the appetizer table.

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.

This recipe has become a family favorite during Christmas when everyone gathers to enjoy festive bites and laughs together.

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 a delightful and easy way to add a festive touch to your holiday table every year.

→ What type of bell peppers work best?: Use large, firm red, yellow, and green bell peppers for easy slicing and flexible strips that hold shape.
→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?: Yes, the bows can be assembled a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but garnish just before serving for freshness.
→ Are there alternative fillings?: Try variations with finely chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to add texture and flavor layers.
→ How to make it vegan-friendly?: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based versions to keep the filling creamy and dairy-free.
→ What garnishes complement these bows?: Optional pomegranate seeds and fresh dill sprigs add vibrant color and a fresh flavor contrast.