Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a tasty treat! Crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy cheese and smoky salmon make for a refreshing snack or party appetizer.
They’re so easy to whip up; you just slice, spread, and stack! I love serving these at gatherings, and they always disappear fast—who can resist that yummy combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber is perfect for these bites because it gives a nice crunch. If you want a milder flavor, consider using English cucumbers, which are thinner with fewer seeds.
Smoked Salmon: Fresh smoked salmon adds a delicious, rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using lox, which is less salty. Canned salmon can also work in a pinch!
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese lends a creamy texture, but for a lighter option, consider whipped cream cheese or Greek yogurt. This will still be spreadable and adds a nice tang!
Dill: Fresh dill is wonderful here for its bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill works as a substitute; just use about one-third of the amount.
How Do I Keep My Cucumber Bites Fresh?
To keep your Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites looking super fresh, you want to prepare them just before serving or chill them for up to an hour.
- Wash and slice cucumbers right before assembling to avoid sogginess.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on the cucumber slices right before adding the salmon to keep them crisp.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a few hours, but they’re best eaten fresh!
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large cucumber
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade), for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare! It’s a quick process, making it perfect for last-minute snacks or appetizers. Just prep the ingredients, assemble, and you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing the cucumber under cold water and patting it dry with a towel. Next, slice the cucumber into rounds that are about 1/3-inch thick. Set these aside on a plate.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Use a spoon or small mixer to mix everything until it’s nice and smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Bites:
With your cucumber slices ready, take about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly over each cucumber round. Make sure to cover them well!
4. Add the Smoked Salmon:
Take a slice of the smoked salmon and fold or gently roll it. Place it right on top of the cream cheese layer on each cucumber slice, adding a delicious smoky flavor.
5. Season Your Bites:
Sprinkle a little bit of everything bagel seasoning on top of the salmon on each bite, which adds crunch and flavor. If you’d like, you can also add a touch of freshly ground black pepper.
6. Garnish:
For a pretty finishing touch, add a small sprig of fresh dill on top of each cucumber bite. This will make them look extra fancy!
7. Serve:
Arrange your delightful cucumber bites on a serving platter. You can serve them right away or chill them for up to an hour before serving to keep them fresh. Enjoy these refreshing, easy-to-make appetizers perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish Instead of Smoked Salmon?
Absolutely! You can use lox, which is slightly milder and less salty. Alternatively, canned tuna or crab can also work well, though they will change the overall flavor profile a bit.
How Do I Prevent the Cucumber from Becoming Soggy?
To keep the cucumber slices crisp, sprinkle a bit of salt on them and let them sit for a few minutes before patting them dry. This helps draw out excess moisture. Additionally, only spread the cream cheese mixture just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber slices and cream cheese mixture in advance! Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the bites right before serving to maintain their freshness.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You could add capers, thinly sliced red onion, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra pop of flavor. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also enhance the presentation and taste.
