This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure page here.
These smoked salmon cucumber bites are the ultimate no-cook appetizer – fresh, creamy, and ready in just 10 minutes! Cool cucumber rounds topped with lemony whipped cream cheese and silky smoked salmon make every bite light yet luxurious. Perfect for brunches, parties, or a quick keto-friendly snack that feels fancy without the fuss.
Save This Recipe
Enter your email and we’ll send the recipe directly to you!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Delicious Meets Healthy.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
When it comes to quick and delicious appetizers, smoked salmon cucumber bites easily steal the spotlight. These delicate little snacks are the ideal balance of fresh, crunchy cucumbers and velvety smoked salmon. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated brunch or a casual get-together, these bites are a surefire crowd-pleaser that is both healthy and eye-catching.
Smoked salmon cucumber bites are super easy to whip up and make for a fantastic last-minute appetizer. They’re perfect for family get-togethers, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and even Easter.
Other great no cook appetizers to try are these Italian Antipasto Skewers, Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe, or Salmon Crostini.
Key Ingredients Notes
- English cucumber – Use English or Persian Cucumbers. These varieties have thin skins and fewer seeds, offering a crisper texture and a more refined bite.
- Smoked salmon – Use high-quality smoked salmon and opt for wild-caught salmon if available. Look for fish with a vibrant, rich color, which indicates freshness. I prefer cold-smoked salmon with a soft texture but hot-smoked salmon would work too.
- Cream cheese – This recipe uses cream cheese, but you could also use goat cheese, or any other spreadable cheese like mascarpone. Alternatively, you could also use mashed avocado for a dairy-free option.
- Aromatics: Fresh chives, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Alternative garnishes: Other great garnishes include fresh dill, capers, lemon zest, or microgreens. For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or drizzle a little balsamic glaze or olive oil over the top.
For a full ingredients list with measurements, check the recipe card below.
How To Make This Smoked Salmon Appetizer
There are 3 simple steps to make these smoked salmon cucumber bites. The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients. It doesn’t get easier than that.
- Add cream cheese, garlic, lemon juice, fresh chives, salt and pepper to the bowl of a small food processor (or to a mixing bowl if you using a mixer).
- Process until all ingredients are incorporated and creamy.
- Using a knife spread the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice.
- Top with pieces of smoked salmon and serve the smoked salmon appetizer cold.
TIPS FROM NELI’S KITCHEN
Recipe Notes and Tips
Here are expert tips for making the best smoked salmon cucumber bites:
- Use English or Persian Cucumbers: These varieties have thin skins and fewer seeds, offering a crisper texture and a more refined bite.
- Slice Cucumbers Uniformly: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for precision, and aim for ¼-inch slices so they’re sturdy enough to hold the toppings without being too bulky.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Before assembling, gently pat the smoked salmon dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the cucumber.
- Garnish at the Last Moment: For the freshest presentation, add garnishes like dill, capers, or lemon zest just before serving to keep them vibrant.
- Serve Immediately: These bites are best when served fresh; assemble them as close to serving time as possible to avoid the cucumbers getting soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This smoked salmon cucumber appetizer is versatile and can be served in various settings, whether you’re hosting a casual brunch, a bridal/wedding shower, a sophisticated dinner party, or a family get-together. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your presentation:
- A holiday appetizer platter alongside deviled eggs or crostini.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Pair these bites with other appetizers like cheese, crackers, olives, and fresh fruit to create a visually appealing spread.
- Cocktail Party Favorite: Present the cucumber salmon bites on a beautiful platter, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers, and serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling water. Looking for something special? Give bacon-wrapped scallops a go.
- Elegant Hors d’Oeuvres: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze and arrange them on small individual plates for a more refined, upscale touch at formal gatherings.
Storing & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some of their crunch after being refrigerated, so these are best enjoyed fresh
- To avoid soggy cucumbers, store the whipped cream cheese and salmon separately and assemble just before serving. This has easily become one of my favorite wholesome appetizers to serve guests because you can prepare part of the recipe ahead of time and avoid last-minute stress.
Why You Will Love This Cucumber Appetizer Recipe!
Here’s why you’ll love this smoked salmon appetizer:
- No Baking/Cooking recipe: I love that this recipe doesn’t involve any baking or cooking, and it’s very simple.
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip these salmon bites up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Light: Low in carbs and packed with protein, these bites are not only delicious but also a guilt-free snack that everyone can enjoy. They are naturally gluten-free, low-carb and keto.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the toppings, spreads, or even the type of fish to create variations that suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes
If you are looking for more easy appetizer recipe ideas, check out these favorite reader favorites:
Appetizers + Snacks
Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites
Appetizers + Snacks
Smoked Salmon Crostini and Wine Pairing
Appetizers + Snacks
Sausage Balls (Gluten-Free & Low Carb)
Appetizers + Snacks
Ricotta and Prosciutto Cracker Appetizers
If you enjoyed this Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you!
Pin this now to find it later
Pin It
FREE Thanksgiving Planner
Get your FREE guide with the best recipes, prep checklist, timeline & tips.
☝ Tap stars to rate
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Save This Recipe
Enter your email and we’ll send the recipe directly to you!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Delicious Meets Healthy.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 3 Tablespoon chopped chives, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt and pepper, each
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced in 1/2" rounds
- 8 oz smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
Instructions
- Whip cream cheese, lemon juice, chopped garlic, 1 Tbsp chopped chives, salt, and pepper.
- Spread some whipped cream cheese on top of each cucumber slice, and top each cucumber bite with a salmon piece. Garnish with chopped chives, salt, pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated covered with a plastic foil for a couple of days.
Video
Notes
- Use English or Persian Cucumbers: These varieties have thin skins and fewer seeds, offering a crisper texture and a more refined bite.
- Slice Cucumbers Uniformly: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for precision, and aim for ¼-inch slices so they’re sturdy enough to hold the toppings without being too bulky.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Before assembling, gently pat the smoked salmon dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the cucumber.
- Garnish at the Last Moment: For the freshest presentation, add garnishes like dill, capers, or lemon zest just before serving to keep them vibrant.
- Serve Immediately: These bites are best when served fresh; assemble them as close to serving time as possible to avoid the cucumbers getting soggy.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary with ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. For accuracy, use your preferred nutrition calculator.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this recipe is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or nutritional advice. I am not a doctor or a dietitian. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your diet or health. For more details, please read my full disclosure page.
These were delicious, and so simple and light. I made 2 batches, added lemon zest to one batch then added a dollop of seafood cocktail sauce and a shrimp on top. Side by side with the smoked salmon, they looked so pretty!
These are delicious! Everyone loved them, they disappeared quickly. Will be making these often!
How cute are these?! And I love how quickly they come together! Love!
These smoked salmon cucumber bites are so nice. Going to make some for our wedding anniversary party next weekend! Pinning for later!
These bites don’t last long at my house. Perfect summer snack! YUM!!
What a quick and easy appetizer, so healthy to boot! Love the crunch and creamy combo 🙂
What a simple and elegant idea to bring to a party.
Simple, beautiful and I am sure really delicious appetizer 🙂