This cool and refreshing dish makes a nice complement to the sometimes assertive flavors of many other appetizers and hors d'oeuvres. It has a smooth consistency mixed with a light flavor making it perfect as a spread for crackers or cocktail bread. It is also thin enough to serve well as a dip for carrots, radishes, mushrooms, artichoke leaves, cherry tomatoes, celery, or your favorite vegetable.

Ingredients

1 - large cucumber
8 ounces - softened cream cheese
1 tablespoon - mayonnaise
1 teaspoon - Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon - lemon juice
1 - finely minced scallion
- parsley springs

Instructions

Peel the cucumber and grate or mince it finely. Place in a strainer and let drain while preparing the dip. Mix the cream cheese in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Mix in the mayonnaise, Worcestershire, and lemon juice. Add the scallions and the cucumber. Mix together gently. Spoon into a serving bowl and garnish with the parsley. Chill for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled.
Low Fat Variation : Light cream cheese or fat free cream cheese works great in this recipe along with fat free mayonnaise.
Vegetarian Variation : Use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce in place of the regular Worcestershire sauce.

Preparation Time

Preparation Time : 10 minutes
Cooking Time : None
Chilling Time : 2 hours
Total Time : 2 hours, 10 minutes

Number of Servings

Makes 3 cups dip

Tips

This dip can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time. Do not place in a serving bowl if making more than four hours ahead. Before serving, mix the dip well to blend. Spoon into a serving bowl and top with the parsley. Serve immediately.