Smoked Salmon Cucumber Roll-Ups – Fresh, Light & Elegant Bites

Introduction

These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Roll-Ups are the perfect fusion of simplicity and sophistication — a refreshing appetizer or light snack that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With crisp cucumber ribbons wrapped around silky smoked salmon, creamy herbed cheese, and a touch of lemon, each bite is cool, savory, and satisfying.

Whether you’re prepping a no-cook summer dish, hosting a brunch, or looking for an elegant low-carb option, these roll-ups are ready in minutes and require no oven time. They’re naturally gluten-free, keto-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

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Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together for maximum flavor and texture contrast.

• English cucumber: Long, seedless, and perfect for slicing into thin ribbons. Choose firm cucumbers for easier rolling.

• Smoked salmon: Choose cold-smoked salmon for its silky texture and delicate flavor. Gravlax also works well.

• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creamy richness. Use full-fat, whipped, or dairy-free options as preferred.

• Fresh herbs: Dill is classic with salmon, but you can also use chives, parsley, or tarragon.

• Lemon zest or juice: Adds a bright, citrusy lift that cuts through the richness.

• Optional add-ins:

  • Capers for briny contrast

  • Thin slices of avocado for creaminess

  • Microgreens or arugula for freshness

  • Everything bagel seasoning for crunch and flavor

Ingredient Tips:

• Use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to get evenly thin cucumber slices.

• Pat cucumber ribbons dry with a paper towel to help fillings stick better.

• Choose high-quality smoked salmon with visible marbling and no artificial flavoring.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the cucumber
   Wash the cucumber and slice off the ends. Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, slice long, thin ribbons lengthwise. You’ll need about 10–12 slices for a small platter.

2. Mix the filling
   In a bowl, combine:

   • 4 oz softened cream cheese

   • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

   • ½ tsp lemon zest

   • Pinch of salt and pepper

   Mix until smooth. Optional: add a tiny splash of lemon juice or a dash of garlic powder.

3. Assemble the roll-ups

   • Lay one cucumber ribbon flat on a clean surface.

   • Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture along the ribbon.

   • Place a strip of smoked salmon on one end.

   • Add a few capers or a piece of avocado if using.

   • Roll tightly from the salmon end to form a pinwheel.

4. Repeat and arrange
   Repeat with the remaining cucumber ribbons. Place seam-side down on a platter. Garnish with extra dill, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a crack of black pepper.

5. Chill before serving (optional)
   For best texture, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps them hold their shape and makes them even more refreshing.

Chef Tips:

• Use a piping bag to neatly apply the cheese mixture for a clean look.

• Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing if making for a party.

• Avoid overfilling — a little cream cheese goes a long way.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Slice cucumbers evenly for easier rolling and better presentation.

• If cucumbers are too wet, blot them gently with paper towels.

• For crispier texture, serve immediately after assembling.

Tasty Variations

• Avocado & Salmon: Add thin avocado slices under the salmon.

• Spicy Cream Cheese: Mix in a touch of horseradish or sriracha for a kick.

• Bagel-Inspired: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for a deli-style twist.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace salmon with roasted red pepper strips or marinated tofu.

Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

• Herb Swap: Try basil, mint, or green onion for different flavor profiles.

• Protein Boost: Add a sliver of hard-boiled egg or swap salmon for smoked trout.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These cucumber roll-ups are light, elegant, and adaptable — making them perfect for a variety of settings.

Serve With:

• Champagne or sparkling water with lemon

• A brunch board alongside fruit, pastries, and hard-boiled eggs

• A charcuterie platter for contrast in texture and freshness

• A salad of arugula, fennel, and citrus

Perfect For:

• Brunch gatherings or bridal showers

• Low-carb lunch appetizers

• Light snacks for hot days

• Elegant cocktail parties or wine nights

• Holiday spreads with other finger foods

These roll-ups hold their own among richer fare and offer a refreshing bite every time.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This recipe is not only beautiful and flavorful — it’s also packed with clean, nourishing ingredients:

• Cucumber: Hydrating, low-calorie, and full of vitamins like K and C.

• Smoked salmon: A great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health.

• Cream cheese: Adds satisfying richness — swap for low-fat or vegan versions if needed.

• Herbs: Provide antioxidants and flavor without added calories.

Each roll-up is roughly 35–50 calories depending on fillings — making them ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly diets. Serve 3–4 as a light lunch or 1–2 as a snack or starter.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make smoked salmon cucumber roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 4 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge. For best presentation, garnish just before serving.

Q2: What’s the best cucumber to use?
English cucumbers are ideal — they’re long, thin-skinned, and nearly seedless. Persian cucumbers can also work if sliced thinly.

Q3: Can I use lox instead of smoked salmon?
Yes, both are cured, but lox is less smoky. Either works well — it’s a matter of taste.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based cream cheese and check that your smoked salmon brand is dairy-free.

Q5: How do I keep roll-ups from unrolling?
Make sure the cucumber ribbons are dry and not overfilled. Place them seam-side down or secure with toothpicks.

Q6: What herbs go best with smoked salmon?
Dill is traditional, but chives, parsley, and tarragon also pair beautifully.

Q7: Can I serve these with bread or crackers?
Yes! You can also flatten the roll-ups into cucumber-salmon stacks and serve on crostini or rice cakes for a different texture.

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