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Easy Elegant Cucumber Rounds with Smoked Salmon and Dill

cucumber rounds with smoked salmon and dill - featured image

A quick and elegant appetizer featuring crisp cucumber rounds topped with creamy lemon-dill cream cheese and smoky salmon, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large English cucumber or Persian cucumbers
  • 4 oz (115 g) thinly sliced smoked salmon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus small sprigs for garnish)
  • 4 oz (115 g) softened cream cheese or crème fraîche
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Capers (optional, to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumber. Using a sharp knife, slice into 1/4-inch (about 6 mm) rounds. Set aside on a platter or paper towel to remove excess moisture for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with fresh lemon juice and finely chopped fresh dill. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk or crème fraîche if the mixture is too thick.
  3. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice gently to avoid breaking the rounds.
  4. Tear or cut smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces roughly the size of the cucumber rounds. Place one piece on top of each cream cheese spread. Add a few capers if desired.
  5. Garnish each round with a small sprig of fresh dill and a light grind of black pepper. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over the cucumber.
  6. Refrigerate the assembled rounds for 10-15 minutes before serving to meld flavors and keep crisp.

Notes

Pat cucumber slices dry to avoid sogginess. Use English or Persian cucumbers for best texture. Assemble just before serving to keep cucumber crisp. Dairy-free cream cheese or mashed avocado can be used as alternatives. Refrigerate assembled rounds for 10-15 minutes for best flavor. Store cucumber and salmon separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber rounds, smoked salmon, dill, appetizer, easy, elegant, party snack, gluten-free, dairy-free option