Name: Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 16
Ingredients: 1 cucumber, cut into 1/2 inch thick rounds (approximately 16 slices); 4 ounces smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 spring onion, finely minced; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites are the undisputed stars of any appetizer spread, and for good reason! These elegant little morsels manage to be both incredibly refreshing and delightfully decadent, making them a go-to for everything from casual get-togethers to more sophisticated soirées. What’s not to love about the crisp, cool crunch of fresh cucumber paired with the rich, smoky, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of premium smoked salmon? They’re incredibly simple to assemble, requiring no cooking whatsoever, which means you can whip up a crowd-pleasing platter with minimal fuss. The magic of these Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites lies in their perfect balance of textures and flavors – a light, healthy base that’s elevated by the luxurious salmon and a few key supporting players. Get ready to impress your guests with these vibrant, flavor-packed bites that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber, cut into 1/2 inch thick rounds (you should get approximately 16 slices)
4 ounces smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 spring onion (also known as scallion), finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparing the Base: Cucumber Slices

Step 1: Slice the Cucumber

Begin extract by washing your cucumber thoroughly under cool running water. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel. For these Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites, the cucumber will serve as our crisp, refreshing base. You want to aim for slices that are about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness provides a sturdy foundation that won’t get soggy and can hold the toppings well. Using a sharp knife will help you achieve clean, uniform slices, which makes for a more attractive presentation. If your cucumber is particularly large, you might get more than 16 slices, which is perfectly fine. If it’s smaller, you might get slightly fewer. The key is consistent thickness.

Crafting the Creamy Topping

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese. It’s important that the cream cheese is softened so it mixes smoothly and easily without any lumps. You can leave it out on the counter for about 30-60 minutes, or gently microwave it for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to melt it completely. To the cream cheese, add the finely minced spring onion. The spring onion will provide a subtle oniony bite that complements the richness of the cream cheese. Next, stir in the fresh chopped chives. Chives add a delicate, onion-like flavor with a hint of garlic and a vibrant green color. For brightness, incorporate the fresh lemon juice and the finely grated lemon zest. The lemon juice adds a tangy note, while the zest provides an aromatic citrus perfume. Finally, season the mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix all these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and you have a smooth, creamy, and flavorful spread. Ensure there are no streaks of cream cheese remaining and that the herbs and onion are evenly distributed.

Assembling the Bites

Step 3: Top the Cucumber Slices

Now that your creamy topping is ready, it’s time to assemble the Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites. Take each cucumber slice and place it on a serving platter or individual plates. Using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a star tip (if you want an extra fancy touch), generously spread or pipe a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each cucumber slice. You want to use enough to create a good base for the smoked salmon, but not so much that it overwhelms the delicate cucumber and salmon flavors. Aim for a layer that covers most of the cucumber slice, leaving a small border around the edge if desired. This step is all about creating a delicious bed for our star ingredient.

Step 4: Add the Smoked Salmon

Once the cream cheese mixture is in place on each cucumber slice, it’s time to add the smoked salmon. Take your bite-sized pieces of smoked salmon and artfully arrange them on top of the cream cheese. You can place a single piece, or a few smaller pieces, depending on how you like them. Don’t be afraid to let the salmon overlap slightly. The beautiful pinkish-orange color of the smoked salmon will create a stunning visual contrast against the green cucumber and the white cream cheese. Gently press each piece of salmon down just slightly into the cream cheese mixture to help it adhere and prevent it from sliding off. This ensures that each bite is perfectly balanced with all the components.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of freshness and flavor, you can garnish your Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites with a few extra chives or a tiny sprig of dill if you have some on hand. A little extra sprinkle of lemon zest can also add a final aromatic flourish. These bites are best served immediately after assembly to ensure the cucumber remains crisp and the cream cheese is at its best texture. They are ideal as elegant appetizers for parties, light snacks, or even as part of a brunch spread. The combination of cool cucumber, rich smoked salmon, and tangy cream cheese is incredibly satisfying and always a crowd-pleaser. You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and slice the cucumber a few hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Then, assemble the bites just before serving to maintain their optimal freshness and texture. Enjoy the delightful simplicity and gourmet taste of these easy-to-make Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites!

Conclusion:

And there you have it – your ultimate guide to creating delightful Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites! This recipe is not only incredibly simple to follow but also yields stunning results that are perfect for any occasion. We’ve covered everything from the fresh, vibrant ingredients to the elegant assembly, ensuring you can impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a sophisticated snack. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the suggested serving ideas – from a light lunch to a party appetizer, these bites are incredibly versatile.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to make these delicious Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the dill for chives, or add a pinch of black pepper for a little kick. Most importantly, have fun in the kitchen and savor every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I prepare the Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! The cucumber slices can be cut and patted dry a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also have your cream cheese mixture ready. However, it’s best to assemble the bites right before serving to prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy and to keep the smoked salmon fresh.

What are some other topping ideas for Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites?

Beyond the classic cream cheese and dill, consider adding a dollop of capers for a briny pop, a sprinkle of finely chopped red onion for a sharp contrast, or even a tiny slice of avocado for extra creaminess. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can also add a lovely brightness.