Food & Receipts

The Ultimate Cucumber Platter: A Display So Irresistible, It’ll Have Everyone Asking for the Recipe

If you're looking for a simple, yet eye-catching way to serve or decorate with cucumbers, this method is sure to impress from the very first glance.

Administrator

5 September, 2024

Ingredients:

2-3 cucumbers, straight and slender
1 long carrot
Blueberries or small black grapes
Carving knife
2 black peppercorns
Sharp, pointed toothpicks

Instructions:

Step 1: Create the Peacock’s Tail

Wash and dry the cucumbers. Cut one cucumber in half, leaving the bottom portion about 10cm long.

Place the cut side of the cucumber half face down on a cutting board. Using a knife, cut both sides of the cucumber into a V-shape, with the first cut about 0.75cm from the top.

Continue making cuts in a layered manner, ensuring each layer is even and spaced about 0.5cm apart.

Once complete, gently push each layer forward to create a feathered effect, as shown in the image.

Step 2: Craft the Peacock’s Head

Cut the remaining cucumber in half lengthwise, keeping the stem intact. From one half, slice a 1.25cm thick piece lengthwise.

Using a simple carving knife, shape this slice into the peacock’s head.

Poke holes on either side of the head and insert the black peppercorns as eyes.

Step 3: Attach the Head and Tail

Use a toothpick to secure the head to the previously carved tail.

Step 4: Create the Peacock’s Wings

From another cucumber, cut a 2-inch segment from one end. Then, cut two slices from either side of the cucumber to form the wings.

Using a sharp knife, carefully shape each slice into a wing. Secure them to the peacock’s body using toothpicks.

Repeat this process for the other wing.

Step 5: Form the Tail Feathers

Cut off one end of another cucumber and carve two deep V-shapes to create the outline of the tail feathers. Then, slice it to create individual feathers.

Step 6: Arrange the Peacock on a Plate

Place the head and upper body of the peacock on a plate. Arrange the tail feathers behind, creating a long, elegant tail.

Step 7: Add Color to the Tail

Slice the carrot into thin, diagonal slices. Arrange these slices on top of the tail feathers for a colorful effect.

Halve the blueberries and place them on top of the carrot slices to enhance the tail’s beauty.

Carve a small piece of carrot into a crest and attach it to the peacock’s head using a toothpick.

And there you have it—a simple yet stunning peacock creation made from cucumbers and carrots. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a creative snack, this edible artwork is sure to delight.

Happy carving, and good luck!

Frequently asked questions

To prepare a cucumber platter that is both delicious and visually appealing, you will need the following ingredients: cucumbers, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Begin by slicing the cucumbers thinly and evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper until well combined. Spread the mixture onto the cucumber slices and arrange them nicely on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of the cream cheese mixture by adding in some fresh chopped herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley. You could also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a bit of sweetness, you can mix in a teaspoon of honey. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect taste.

This cucumber platter can absolutely be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Simply slice the cucumbers and prepare the cream cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Store the cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the mixture covered in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, let the cream cheese mixture come to room temperature for easier spreading, and then assemble the platter. It’s as simple as that!

Most definitely! You can get creative and add some variety to this cucumber platter. For example, you could try using different types of cheeses in place of cream cheese, such as herbed goat cheese or a creamy blue cheese. Sliced tomatoes, avocados, or bell peppers would also make great additions to the platter, offering a burst of color and flavor. You might also consider serving it with a variety of crackers or toasted baguette slices on the side.

For this cucumber platter, it is best to use English cucumbers or hothouse cucumbers. These varieties tend to have thinner skins and fewer seeds, making them ideal for slicing thinly. They also have a milder flavor that pairs well with the cream cheese mixture. If you only have access to regular garden cucumbers, you can still use them, but you may want to peel them and remove the seeds first to achieve the best texture and taste.