Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

• 1 English cucumber
• 8 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon capers, drained and rinsed
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps

1. 1 Slice the cucumber lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. 2 Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds from each cucumber slice.
3. 3 In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, capers, salt, and pepper.
4. 4 Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
5. 5 Top each cucumber slice with a piece of smoked salmon.
6. 6 Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with extra dill if desired.

Equipment

• teaspoon
• knife
• cutting board
• small bowl

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
• Experiment with adding thinly sliced red onion for extra crunch.

Substitutions

• If smoked salmon isn't available, use lox or gravlax as a substitute.
• For a vegan option, replace cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use smoked tofu instead of salmon.

Pairings

• Serve with a citrusy arugula salad.
• Pair with a bubbly champagne for a celebratory appetizer.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a make-ahead option, prepare the cucumber bites up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate them covered.
• If you prefer a stronger caper flavor, increase the amount to 2 teaspoons.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

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

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.
• Pair with assorted crackers and olives for a complete appetizer spread.

FAQ