As the holiday season rolls around, finding the perfect appetizers to complement your festive spread can be a challenge. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a delightful, healthy, and easy-to-make addition to your Christmas dinner recipes. These light and elegant bites are sure to impress your guests with their fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and no cooking.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: A great choice for those following low-carb diets.
- Elegant Presentation: Adds a sophisticated touch to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 large English cucumber
- 8 oz (225g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon capers, drained and chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon zest and fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber Rounds
- Slice the cucumber into ¼-inch thick rounds. You should get about 20-24 rounds from a large cucumber.
- Lay them flat on a serving platter and lightly sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using capers, add them now for an extra burst of flavor.
- Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Bites
- Place a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber round.
- Gently fold or curl a thin slice of smoked salmon and place it on top of the cream cheese. You can create a small rose-like shape with the salmon for an elegant look.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Finish each bite with a small sprinkle of lemon zest and a tiny sprig of fresh dill on top.
- Arrange the bites on a festive platter, and they’re ready to serve!
Tips for Success:
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the assembled bites for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Add a Pop of Color: For a festive touch, garnish the platter with pomegranate seeds or thinly sliced red bell pepper for extra color.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the cream cheese mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge. Assemble the bites just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
Why These Bites are Perfect for Christmas Dinner:
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are light, refreshing, and beautifully colorful—an ideal appetizer to start off your holiday feast. This dish pairs wonderfully with heavier main courses, helping to balance out the meal. Its elegant presentation and burst of fresh flavors make it a go-to in any list of Christmas dinner recipes.