Save These Keto Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites are the ultimate elegant and refreshing appetizer. Combining the crisp crunch of fresh English cucumber with a savory herb-infused cream cheese and silky smoked salmon, they provide a perfect low-carb solution for any festive occasion or simple snack.
Save Whether you are hosting a brunch or looking for a light afternoon bite, these cucumber rounds offer a beautiful balance of flavors. The brightness of the lemon juice and fresh dill cuts through the richness of the dairy and fish, creating a harmonious and satisfying taste experience.
Ingredients
- Base: 1 large English cucumber
- Filling: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Topping: 100 g (3.5 oz) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- Garnish: 1 tbsp capers (optional); extra dill sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Wash and dry the cucumber. Slice into 16 thick rounds (about 1 cm / 0.5 inch each).
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 3
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, top each cucumber round with about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 4
- Gently fold or roll smoked salmon slices and place on top of the cream cheese.
- Step 5
- Garnish each bite with a few capers and a small sprig of dill, if desired.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a perfect presentation, use a sharp knife and a cutting board to create uniform cucumber rounds. Using a piping bag for the cream cheese mixture can help you achieve a more professional and consistent look for each bite.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra flavor kick, try adding a touch of horseradish to the cream cheese mixture. You can also substitute the fresh dill with chives or parsley depending on your personal preference or what you have on hand.
Serviervorschläge
These bites are excellent when paired with a dry sparkling wine. Be sure to serve them fresh to maintain the cucumber's crunch, though they can be chilled for up to 2 hours if prepared slightly ahead of time.
Save With their vibrant colors and classic flavor combination, these Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. They prove that simple, high-quality ingredients can create a truly impressive dish with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 2 hours before serving. Keep refrigerated and add smoked salmon just before serving to maintain texture.
- → What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Try softened goat cheese, whipped feta, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for different flavor profiles while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I prevent cucumber from getting watery?
Pat cucumber slices dry with paper towels after slicing. You can also lightly salt them and let sit for 5 minutes, then pat dry before topping.
- → Are these suitable for freezing?
No, these are best enjoyed fresh. Freezing affects the cucumber texture and cream cheese consistency, making them soggy when thawed.
- → What other toppings work well?
Try adding thinly sliced radishes, fresh chives, a dollop of caviar, or Everything Bagel seasoning for variety and extra crunch.