Creamy Cucumber Rye Bites
This delightful appetizer combines the crunch of fresh cucumber with the rich creaminess of herb-infused cheese spread on perfectly toasted rye cocktail bread. Ideal for parties, picnics, and social gatherings, these Creamy Cucumber Rye Bites offer a refreshing and elegant taste that will leave your guests asking for more. My mom has always made these for our get-togethers, and they have become a staple at every celebration, disappearing almost as quickly as they're served!
25
Servings
64
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumber
1 medium (peeled and thinly sliced)
Rye Cocktail Bread
1 loaf (found in the deli section)
Good Seasons Zesty Italian Dry Salad Dressing Mix
1 (2/3 ounce) packet
Cream Cheese
16 ounces (softened (can use low fat if desired))
Dill Weed
to taste (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the cucumber and slicing it thinly into rounds.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with the Good Seasons Zesty Italian dry salad dressing mix, stirring until well blended and creamy.
3
Take the rye cocktail bread and generously spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice.
4
Place a thin cucumber slice on top of the cream cheese spread on each piece of bread.
5
Sprinkle a pinch of dill weed over the cucumber for a fragrant finish.
6
Repeat the process until the desired amount of bites have been assembled.
7
Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
4.5g
Carbs
1.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Cucumber Rye Bites?
They are a delightful appetizer combining crunchy fresh cucumber, herb-infused cream cheese, and toasted rye cocktail bread.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 25 servings.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute for regular cream cheese if desired.
What kind of bread is recommended?
The recipe calls for rye cocktail bread, typically found in the deli section of most grocery stores.
How do I prepare the cucumber?
The cucumber should be peeled and then sliced thinly into rounds.
What is the main flavoring for the cream cheese?
The flavor comes from mixing one 0.67-ounce packet of Good Seasons Zesty Italian dry salad dressing mix with the cream cheese.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 64 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 4.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in these bites?
Each bite contains about 1.3 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 4.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Do I need to cook anything for this recipe?
No, this is a no-cook recipe involving assembly and optional bread toasting.
How do I garnish the cucumber bites?
Sprinkle a pinch of dry dill weed over the cucumber slice on each bite for a fragrant finish.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, they can be arranged on a platter and refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Absolutely, these are ideal for parties, picnics, and social gatherings.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
You will need 5 main ingredients: cucumber, rye bread, Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, and dill weed.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe requires 16 ounces of softened cream cheese.
What is the best way to mix the spread?
Combine the cream cheese and salad dressing mix in a bowl and stir until well blended and creamy.
Are these bites considered a healthy snack?
With 64 calories and fresh cucumber, they are a lighter appetizer option compared to many fried snacks.
What size packet of dressing mix should I use?
Use a 2/3 ounce (approx 19g) packet of Good Seasons Zesty Italian Dry Salad Dressing Mix.
Is the cucumber skin left on?
No, the instructions specify to peel the cucumber before slicing.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, cucumber, rye bread, party food, snack, fresh, easy recipe, and brunch.
Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
While the recipe calls for dill weed, fresh dill can be used as a flavorful alternative garnish.
How thick should the cucumber slices be?
The instructions recommend slicing the cucumber thinly.
Where can I find the rye cocktail bread?
It is usually located in the deli section or the specialty bread aisle of the supermarket.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians.
How long does it take to assemble?
Since it is an easy recipe with no cooking, assembly is very quick once ingredients are prepared.
Can I use a different type of bread?
While rye cocktail bread is traditional for this recipe, you can use other small crackers or bread rounds if needed.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, using softened cream cheese makes it much easier to blend with the dressing mix and spread on the bread.
What makes this recipe unique?
The combination of zesty Italian seasoning mixed directly into the cream cheese provides a unique, savory flavor profile.
Can I add other seasonings?
The recipe is designed around the Italian dressing mix, but you could add garlic powder or black pepper to suit your taste.