These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a refreshing and tasty treat! Crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy cheese and savory smoked salmon make a perfect party snack or light appetizer.
They look fancy, but are super easy to make. Just slice, spread, and stack! I love serving them on a pretty platter, and they’re gone in a flash—perfect for impressing friends! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber provides a nice crunchy base. If you’re looking for a more unique twist, try using mini cucumbers or English cucumbers—they’re slightly sweeter and have fewer seeds.
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese works well, but you can use whipped cream cheese for an even lighter texture. For a healthier option, swap it out for Greek yogurt or vegan cream cheese if you’re dairy-free.
Fresh Dill: Dill is key for flavor! If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, dried dill can work in a pinch, but cut the amount in half. You can also use chives or parsley for a different flavor.
Smoked Salmon: While I love the traditional smoked salmon, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp or even sliced turkey if you prefer something different. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly!
How Do You Keep Cucumbers Crisp for Your Bites?
Keeping cucumbers crisp is essential for these bites! Follow these steps to ensure freshness:
- Wash and slice the cucumbers just before serving. This reduces their exposure to air, which causes them to soften.
- Pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Assemble the bites right before you serve them. If you need to prep them ahead, keep the cucumber slices and toppings separate in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Store any leftovers in a sealed container, but eat them within a day for the best texture!
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bites:
- 1 large cucumber
- 4 oz (110 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 4 oz (115 g) smoked salmon, sliced into small pieces or curls
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon capers, drained
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve them right away or chill them in the fridge for up to an hour to keep the cucumbers crisp and refreshing. Perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly under running water. Slice the cucumber into 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick rounds. After slicing, pat the cucumber rounds dry with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture. This helps keep your bites crisp!
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, finely chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or mixer to blend everything until smooth and well combined. It should be creamy and easy to spread.
3. Assemble the Bites:
Take each cucumber slice and spread a small dollop of the dill cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Don’t be shy—this adds a delicious flavor!
4. Add the Smoked Salmon:
On top of the cream cheese layer, place a piece or curl of smoked salmon. You can get creative here and arrange it however you like!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish each bite with a small sprig of fresh dill. If you’re using capers, add a few on top for an extra pop of flavor. Arrange all the bites on a lovely serving platter.
6. Enjoy or Chill:
Serve the bites immediately for the freshest taste, or cover them and refrigerate for up to 1 hour to keep them crisp until your guests arrive. Enjoy this refreshing, easy, and delicious appetizer!
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering—light, creamy, and full of flavor!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and slice the cucumbers up to a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the bites no more than one hour before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese. For a vegan alternative, try a dairy-free cream cheese or mashed avocado for a different flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Bites?
Leftover bites should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator but are best eaten the same day for maximum freshness. If they start to lose their crispness, consider eating the cucumber slices separately with the cream cheese and salmon mixture on the side.
Can I Use Other Toppings?
Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings. Consider using fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or try adding cucumber slices with other proteins like crab or turkey. Capers, red onion slices, or pickles can also add a nice twist!