Introduction

This smoked salmon appetizer is a light and elegant starter perfect for any gathering. Creamy dill-infused cream cheese pairs beautifully with delicate smoked salmon, all wrapped in fresh cucumber ribbons for a refreshing bite.

Nine small rolls arranged closely on a white plate, each made from thin, translucent light green cucumber slices wrapped into spirals. Inside the spirals, there is a creamy, slightly chunky filling with colors of light pink and white, visible in the swirled layers. The rolls stand upright, showing multiple layers of cucumber and filling from the base to the top. In the blurry background, fresh green dill is out of focus on a white marbled surface, adding a touch of texture. A glass dish with a similar pink and white mixture is faintly visible behind the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 large cucumber
1 tbsp dill, chopped
3 oz smoked salmon

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, and smoked salmon. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Use a vegetable peeler to slice the cucumber into thin strips. Pat the strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help the spread adhere better.
Step 3: Spread a thin layer of the smoked salmon mixture onto each cucumber strip. Carefully roll up each strip and place on a serving plate.
Step 4: Chill the rolls until ready to serve. For best texture, prepare shortly before serving to avoid sogginess.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh dill for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to your taste.
For a tangy twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
Try substituting smoked salmon with smoked trout or even thinly sliced prosciutto for variety.
If you prefer a firmer spread, chill the mixture before spreading.

Storage

Store any leftover rolls covered in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Because of the cucumber’s moisture, these appetizers are best served soon after preparation. Refrigerate the cream cheese mixture separately if making ahead, then assemble just before serving.

How to Serve

This image shows nine small rolled appetizers on a white plate, each made from thin, light green cucumber strips wrapped around a creamy, light pink filling with visible small bits of red and white. The rolls are arranged in loose rows with most rolls standing upright, showing the spiral layers of cucumber and filling clearly spiraled inside. The white plate sits on a white marbled texture surface, with some faint green herbs blurred in the background and a clear glass bowl with pink filling visible in the top right. The focus is sharp on the rolls, highlighting the fresh, smooth cucumber skin and creamy texture of the filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the smoked salmon spread in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese and smoked salmon mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just make sure to assemble the cucumber rolls closer to serving time to prevent sogginess.

What is the best way to slice the cucumber?

Using a vegetable peeler to create thin, wide strips works best for this recipe. It provides a flexible wrap that holds the filling well and looks elegant.