Easy Gluten Free Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

These gluten free smoked salmon cucumber bites are the perfect easy appetizer! Fresh cucumbers topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and dill—ready in just 10 minutes for holidays, parties, or snacks.

Introduction

When you need a quick, elegant, and gluten-free appetizer, Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are the answer. They’re light, fresh, and bursting with flavor from the creamy cheese, crisp cucumbers, and savory smoked salmon. Best of all, they take less than 10 minutes to prepare, making them a favorite for holidays, brunch, or party spreads.

Why this recipe is the best

• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb.
• Requires no cooking—just simple assembly.
• Elegant enough for parties but easy enough for everyday snacks.
• Versatile with endless topping options.
• Ready in under 10 minutes!

Ingredient Notes:

• Cucumbers – Use English or Persian cucumbers for best crunch.
• Cream Cheese – Plain or flavored (garlic herb, chive, or whipped for easy spreading).
• Smoked Salmon – High-quality, thinly sliced salmon.
• Fresh Dill or Chives – For garnish and flavor boost.
• Optional – Lemon juice, black pepper, capers, or red onion for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

• Wash and dry cucumbers.
• Slice into ½-inch thick rounds.
• Pat dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Spread

• In a small bowl, mix:
  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of black pepper
• Stir until smooth

Step 3: Assemble the Bites

• Place cucumber slices on a serving platter.
• Add a teaspoon of cream cheese spread on each round.

Step 4: Add Smoked Salmon

• Cut smoked salmon into small pieces.
• Place one piece on top of the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh dill or chives.
• white sesame seeds
• black sesame seeds
• Optional: add capers or a light squeeze of lemon.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

• Use firm cucumbers for the crispiest bites.
• English or Persian cucumbers are best since they are less watery.
• You can make the cream cheese mixture ahead of time, but assemble just before serving.
• These bites are best eaten fresh and not stored overnight.
• Perfect appetizer for Christmas, Easter, New Year’s Eve, baby showers, or brunch gatherings.

SPECIAL NOTE

Always check the labels on your smoked salmon and cream cheese to ensure they are certified gluten free, as some flavored versions may contain hidden gluten.

Presentation matters too! Arrange the cucumber bites neatly on a white platter or wooden serving board, garnish with dill, and chill them before serving. Not only will they taste delicious, but they’ll also look elegant and impressive on your party table.

Tips

• Let cream cheese soften before spreading—it mixes more smoothly.
• For a neater look, pipe cream cheese using a piping bag.
• Chill the bites for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
• Garnish just before serving to keep herbs fresh and vibrant.

Variations

• Herbed Cream Cheese: Use garlic-herb cream cheese instead of plain.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with hummus or avocado spread.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cream cheese.
• Seafood Swap: Use shrimp, crab, or tuna instead of smoked salmon.
• Mediterranean Style: Add feta and olives for a Greek-inspired bite.

Nutrition (per serving, ~2 bites):

• Calories: 85
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 4% DV

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutrition information is an estimate based on standard ingredients and portion sizes. Exact values may vary depending on the specific brands you use. Always check labels for dietary restrictions, especially when serving to guests with allergies or celiac disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make smoked salmon cucumber bites ahead of time?
A: You can prep the cucumbers and cream cheese spread ahead, but it’s best to assemble just before serving to keep them crisp.

Q: What can I substitute for smoked salmon?
A: Shrimp, crab, or even tuna works well as alternatives.

Q: Can I use dairy-free cream cheese?
A: Yes! There are many dairy-free and vegan cream cheese options that pair perfectly with cucumbers and salmon.

Q: How long can they sit out?
A: These are best served within 1–2 hours of assembling. Keep them chilled until ready to serve.

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If you enjoyed these Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, share them on Pinterest or save them for your next party platter! They’re the perfect mix of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors.