Mini ‘Carrot’ Peppers: The Perfect Easter Appetizer

When it comes to Easter entertaining, nothing beats a festive and creative appetizer that is not only adorable but also delicious. These Mini ‘Carrot’ Peppers are the ultimate bite-sized snack, filled with a creamy herb cheese mixture and garnished to look like tiny carrots. They are not only a visual delight but also provide a flavorful contrast of textures, combining the crunch of fresh bell peppers with the smoothness of the cheese filling.

Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, family gathering, or springtime party, these make-ahead appetizers will be a hit with both kids and adults. Their vibrant orange color, complemented by the green herb garnish, adds a cheerful, seasonal touch to any serving platter. The ease of preparation makes them an excellent choice for those who want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, their nutrient-rich profile offers a refreshing alternative to heavier party snacks, making them ideal for those looking for a healthier appetizer option.

In addition to being an Easter favorite, these stuffed peppers are versatile enough for year-round occasions. Whether served at a baby shower, garden party, or as part of a picnic spread, their elegant yet effortless appeal makes them a go-to appetizer for any gathering. By simply adjusting the filling or herb garnish, they can be adapted to suit different flavor profiles and themes, allowing for endless creativity in presentation and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick – Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Easter – Their bright orange color and cute carrot-like appearance make them a festive addition to any Easter spread.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep them the day before and chill until serving.
• Healthy & Light – Made with fresh mini bell peppers, they’re a low-carb, vegetarian appetizer.
• Customizable – Change up the herbs and cheeses for a personalized flavor twist.
• Kid-Friendly – A great way to encourage children to eat more vegetables in a fun and creative way.
• Visually Appealing – The bright colors and unique presentation make these a standout on any Easter table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this simple yet flavorful Easter appetizer, you’ll need:

• 10-12 Mini Orange Bell Peppers – These resemble tiny carrots and provide a crisp, fresh crunch.
• 1 Bunch of Fresh Dill or Carrot Greens – Used for the carrot tops.

Herb Cream Cheese Filling

• 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened – The base of the creamy filling.
• 3 tbsp Sour Cream – Adds extra creaminess.
• 1 Chopped Scallion – Provides a mild onion flavor.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped – For a fresh, herby taste.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped – Enhances the flavor and color.
• 1/8 tsp Salt – To balance the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the flavor.
• 1/4 tsp Lemon Zest – Brightens the filling with a hint of citrus.

How to Make Mini ‘Carrot’ Peppers

Step 1: Slice the Peppers

Lay each mini bell pepper flat on a cutting board and see how they naturally rest. Slice them lengthwise, following their natural position so they lay flat without tilting.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, scallions, dill, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and lemon zest until smooth. You can use a spoon or an electric mixer for a fluffier texture.

Step 3: Fill the Peppers

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each mini bell pepper half with the herb cream cheese mixture. Smooth out the filling for an even presentation.

Step 4: Add the Carrot Tops

Gently press fresh dill fronds or carrot greens into the cream cheese at the top of each pepper to mimic the look of a real carrot.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Place the stuffed peppers on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Mini ‘Carrot’ Peppers

• Use fresh, crisp peppers – This ensures a nice crunch with every bite.
• Make them ahead – Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Pipe the filling – For a cleaner, more professional look, use a piping bag instead of a spoon.
• Experiment with herbs – Try adding basil, chives, or tarragon for a different flavor.
• Pair with a dip – Serve with a side of ranch, tzatziki, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
• Toast the peppers – Lightly roasting the peppers for 5 minutes can add extra depth to their flavor.
• Add a crunch – Sprinkle crushed nuts or panko breadcrumbs on top of the filling for extra texture.

Variations & Customizations

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Make It Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar, feta, or Parmesan for extra richness.
• Go Vegan: Swap out the cream cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based cream cheese.
• Try a Protein Boost: Stir in some finely chopped smoked salmon or crumbled bacon for a heartier bite.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the filling for a subtle contrast of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These festive mini ‘carrot’ peppers pair well with other Easter appetizers like:

• Easter Charcuterie Board – A colorful mix of cheeses, fruits, and crackers.
• Deviled Eggs – A classic Easter snack that complements these stuffed peppers.
• Feta-Stuffed Roasted Baby Peppers – A warm, cheesy alternative.
• Lamb Chops with Tzatziki Sauce – A heartier dish to balance the freshness of the peppers.
• Spring Salad – A light, refreshing mix of arugula, strawberries, and balsamic glaze.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The filling may firm up, so let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream cheese mixture may become grainy once thawed.
• Reheating: If lightly roasted, they can be warmed in a low-temperature oven for 5 minutes to refresh their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

These Mini ‘Carrot’ Peppers are the perfect Easter appetizer—they are easy, festive, and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering or a spring-themed party, their adorable carrot-like appearance and creamy, herb-filled flavor will make them a favorite on any appetizer table.

With simple ingredients and just 10 minutes of prep, these stuffed peppers offer maximum visual appeal with minimal effort. Plus, they can be made ahead, leaving you more time to enjoy the celebration with friends and family.

Save this recipe and add it to your Easter menu this year. Your guests will love this fun and flavorful appetizer!

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