Imagine an appetizer so elegant, so delightfully fresh, and so incredibly easy to make that it will have your guests wondering if you've secretly trained as a professional chef. These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are the perfect blend of sophistication and simplicity, transforming ordinary ingredients into a gourmet experience that takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Whether you're hosting a fancy cocktail party or looking for a quick, impressive snack, these bite-sized delights will elevate your culinary game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- 4 ounces smoked salmon
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the large cucumber under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Aim for even slices to ensure uniformity in presentation.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and fresh dill. Use a fork or a spatula to mix them together until well blended. The dill will add a fresh flavor that complements the smoked salmon.
- Once the cream cheese and dill are mixed, add fresh lemon juice to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring it is well balanced.
- Take a cucumber slice and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture on top. Be sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.
- Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese spread. You can fold or cut the salmon to fit the cucumber slice if needed.
- Repeat the process for the remaining cucumber slices, cream cheese mixture, and smoked salmon until all ingredients are used up.
- Arrange the smoked salmon cucumber bites on a serving platter. For an added touch, you can garnish with additional fresh dill or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or snack. Enjoy the combination of flavors and textures!
Tips
- Choose a firm, fresh cucumber and slice it evenly to ensure stable and attractive bites.
- Use high-quality cream cheese and smoked salmon for the best flavor profile.
- Chill your ingredients beforehand for a more refreshing appetizer.
- Experiment with different herb variations like chives or parsley if you're not a fan of dill.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese.
- If preparing in advance, assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumber crisp.
- For an extra touch of elegance, use a piping bag to apply the cream cheese mixture for a more professional look.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg