Save Experience the ultimate low-carb appetizer with these Keto Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites. This elegant dish combines the crisp texture of fresh English cucumbers with a velvety, herb-infused cream cheese and the rich, smoky flavor of premium salmon. Perfect for entertaining or as a sophisticated snack, these bites are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Save Whether you are preparing for a holiday party or looking for a light afternoon treat, these cucumber bites deliver high-impact flavor with minimal effort. Using a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality appetizer that fits perfectly into a gluten-free or ketogenic diet.
Ingredients
- Base: 1 large English cucumber
- Filling: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Topping: 100 g (3.5 oz) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- Garnish: 1 tbsp capers (optional); Extra dill sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Wash and dry the cucumber. Slice into 16 thick rounds (about 1 cm / 0.5 inch each).
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 3
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, top each cucumber round with about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 4
- Gently fold or roll smoked salmon slices and place on top of the cream cheese.
- Step 5
- Garnish each bite with a few capers and a small sprig of dill, if desired.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best presentation, use a sharp knife and a cutting board to get uniform cucumber rounds. If you want a more decorative look, use a piping bag to apply the cream cheese mixture to the cucumber base.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra zing, try adding a touch of horseradish to the cream cheese mixture. You can also substitute the dill with fresh chives or parsley depending on your flavor preference.
Serviervorschläge
These elegant bites are excellent when paired with a glass of dry sparkling wine. They should be served chilled to maintain the crispness of the cucumber and the freshness of the salmon.
Save With their vibrant colors and classic flavor profile, these Keto Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites are sure to be the star of your next gathering. They prove that healthy, low-carb eating can be both simple and incredibly sophisticated.
Recipe FAQs
- → How far in advance can I make these cucumber bites?
Prepare these up to 2 hours before serving. The cream cheese mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, but assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
- → What can I use instead of smoked salmon?
Try thinly sliced prosciutto, cooked shrimp, or lox. For a vegetarian option, use thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
- → How do I prevent the cucumber from getting watery?
Pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels after slicing. If preparing ahead, place the assembled bites on a wire rack over a paper towel to allow any excess moisture to drain.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use mashed avocado mixed with lemon juice and fresh herbs for a creamy element without dairy.
- → What other herbs work well in the cream cheese mixture?
Fresh chives, parsley, tarragon, or basil can replace or complement the dill. Each herb brings a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the fresh, bright character of these bites.
- → Are these suitable for freezing?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cucumber and cream cheese will change. These are best enjoyed fresh within a few hours of preparation.