These smoked salmon cucumber bites are a fresh and tasty treat! Crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy cheese and savory salmon make a perfect snack or appetizer.
They’re super easy to make, and they look pretty fancy too! I love serving them at parties—they always disappear before I can even grab one! 🐟🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber is best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use English cucumbers, which are longer and have fewer seeds. They also have a thinner skin, making them nice and tender!
Smoked Salmon: The star of these bites is definitely the smoked salmon. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for deli-style smoked turkey or even roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian option!
Cream Cheese or Goat Cheese: I like cream cheese for its ease. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor but can be a bit stronger. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan cream cheese or a nut-based spread!
Dill & Chives: Fresh dill is classic here, but if you can’t find it, use parsley for a milder flavor. Chives bring a nice oniony touch; if you don’t have them, just skip them or use onion powder instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Spread on My Cucumber Bites?
Spreading the cheese should be easy and fun! Here are some tips to make sure it goes smoothly:
- Make sure your cream cheese is really soft, which makes it easier to spread. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- Use a knife or an offset spatula to apply the cheese. This helps you get an even layer without tearing the cucumber.
- If you’re struggling, try warming the cheese slightly in the microwave (just a few seconds!) to soften it even more.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large cucumber
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces cream cheese or goat cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice, a few drops (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, which makes it perfect for a last-minute get-together or a lovely snack any time of the day. Enjoy these refreshing bites right away for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cucumber:
Start by washing your cucumber thoroughly under cold water. Then, slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If there’s any water remaining on the slices, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to keep your bites from becoming soggy.
2. Making the Herbed Cheese:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (or goat cheese) with the chopped dill and chives if you’re using them. If you want a little tang, add a few drops of lemon juice, and season with freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy.
3. Assembling the Bites:
Grab your cucumber slices and spread a small dollop of the herbed cheese mixture on each one. You want just enough to cover the surface—no need for it to be piled high!
4. Adding the Salmon:
Take a thin slice of the smoked salmon and fold or roll it up. Place it right on top of the cheese on each cucumber slice. This adds a delicious savory flavor to each bite!
5. Garnishing:
To finish it off, add a small sprig of fresh dill on top of each bite. If you like, you can add a tiny extra dot of the herbed cheese for presentation.
6. Serving Them Up:
Arrange all your cucumber bites neatly on a serving platter. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper over the top. Serve these goodies immediately for the best crispness and flavor, or you can refrigerate them for up to 2 hours if needed.
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are crisp, creamy, and really flavorful! The combination of fresh cucumber with the smokiness of the salmon is just delightful. Enjoy this easy and delicious appetizer!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, you can try smoked trout or even canned tuna in oil as a tasty alternative. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match!
How Can I Make These Dairy-Free?
To make these bites dairy-free, you can use a non-dairy cream cheese or a cashew-based spread. There are many great options available that mimic cream cheese textures well!
Can I Make These Bites in Advance?
You can prepare the herbed cheese mixture and slice the cucumber ahead of time. Just wait to assemble them until right before serving to keep the cucumber crisp!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Keep in mind that the cucumber may become soggy, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
