These quick and easy cucumber bites are a refreshing and elegant appetizer. The creamy, herb-infused cheese pairs perfectly with crisp cucumber slices and juicy cherry tomatoes, making them a delightful snack for any occasion.

#### Ingredients:

- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

- 1/4 cup ranch dressing

- 2 tablespoons fresh dill or thyme, finely chopped

- 3-4 long cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces

- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved

- Salt, to taste

- Paprika or Cajun spice mix, for garnish

#### Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Herbed Cream Cheese:**

   - In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and finely chopped dill or thyme. Mix until smooth and well combined.

   - Transfer the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip.

**2. Prepare the Cucumbers:**

   - Wash and peel the cucumbers. Using a fork, score the sides of each cucumber to create decorative ridges.

   - Slice the cucumbers into 1-inch thick pieces.

   - Using a melon baller, scoop out a small portion from the center of each cucumber slice to create a crater, being careful not to go all the way through.

**3. Assemble the Cucumber Bites:**

   - Pipe the herbed cream cheese mixture into the craters of the cucumber slices, allowing the cream cheese to extend about 1/2 inch above the surface.

   - Place half a cherry tomato on top of the cream cheese, pressing gently so it adheres.

**4. Garnish and Serve:**

   - Sprinkle each cucumber bite with a pinch of salt.

   - Lightly dust with paprika or Cajun spice mix for added flavor and color.

   - Serve the cucumber bites cold.

**5. Enjoy:**

   - These cucumber bites are best served fresh. Arrange them on a platter and enjoy this refreshing appetizer!

### Tips:

- **Peeling and Scoring:** Peeling and scoring the cucumbers not only adds a decorative touch but also helps the cream cheese adhere better.

- **Piping Bag:** If you don't have a piping bag, you can use a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off.

- **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the herbed cream cheese mixture and the cucumber slices ahead of time, but assemble them just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.

These cucumber bites are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and delightful flavors. Enjoy!