Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large cucumbers
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• Optional: capers and fresh dill for garnish

Steps

1. 1 In a bowl, mix cream cheese, dill, chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. 2 Slice cucumbers lengthwise into quarters, then scoop out seeds with a teaspoon to create cups.
3. 3 Spoon herbed cream cheese mixture into cucumber cups.
4. 4 Top each cucumber bite with a piece of smoked salmon.
5. 5 Garnish with capers and fresh dill if desired.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Teaspoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Variations

• Substitute smoked trout for salmon for a different flavor profile.
• Add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese for a spicy kick.

Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative to cream cheese.
• If fresh herbs aren't available, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill and 1 teaspoon of dried chives.

Pairings

• Serve with a selection of crackers and assorted olives.
• Pair with a citrusy gin and tonic for a refreshing combination.

Nutrition

Tips

• Prepare cucumber bites up to 2 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator.
• For extra flavor, let the herbed cream cheese sit in the fridge for an hour before serving.

Storage

Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 hours of preparation. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

Freezing: These bites do not freeze well due to the cream cheese and cucumber texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Offer alongside other elegant appetizers like mini quiches or stuffed mushrooms.

FAQ