Smoked salmon cucumber bites are the kind of appetizer that makes people hover near the snack table and wonder who brought the fancy stuff. They are cool creamy a little tangy and packed with flavor in one perfect bite-sized stack. The combo of crisp cucumber a swipe of herby whipped Boursin cheese smoky salmon and a pop of pickled onion hits all the right notes. Sprinkle a little nigella seed fresh chives and lemon zest on top and suddenly your no-cook ten minute snack feels like it came off a restaurant menu. Sure it starts with the classic salmon and cream cheese idea but this version adds fresh crunch from cucumber and a savory kick from the Boursin that takes it to a whole new place.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Here’s everything you’ll need to make smoked salmon cucumber bites that are light fresh and absolutely addictive. This list is short sweet and totally flexible depending on what you have on hand.
Smoked Salmon
Go for thinly sliced cold-smoked salmon if you want that silky smooth texture. Hot-smoked salmon works too if you’re looking for a flakier more robust bite. And here’s a budget-friendly tip—salmon trimmings are perfect for this recipe. No one will know the difference.
Cucumbers
English or Persian cucumbers are the best here. They’re seedless and have thin skins so no peeling necessary. Slice them into thick rounds about a third of an inch thick. That way they can hold all your toppings without falling apart. Be sure to pat them dry so the cheese stays put.
Boursin Cheese
This is where the flavor party starts. Boursin is a soft herbed cheese that’s garlicky creamy and seriously delicious. Whipping it makes it light and spreadable and adds an extra layer of fancy. If you can’t find Boursin no worries—plain cream cheese works too. Add a little garlic powder lemon zest or chopped herbs to boost the flavor.
Pickled Onions
They add tang brightness and a little crunch. Quick pickled red onions are our go-to but you can sub in capers finely diced dill pickles or even a splash of vinegar if you’re in a pinch. Just something with a little zip to cut through the richness.
Nigella Seeds
These tiny black seeds add a subtle oniony flavor and a bit of crunch. Don’t have them? You can totally swap in black sesame seeds bagel seasoning or dukkah. Even a sprinkle of everything bagel spice works here.
Fresh Chives and Lemon Zest
These are optional but highly recommended. Chopped chives bring color and a mild onion bite while lemon zest brightens the whole thing up. Just a little sprinkle on top goes a long way.
That’s it. Simple ingredients smart swaps and tons of flavor. Next we’ll walk through exactly how to bring these smoked salmon cucumber bites together from prep to plate.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites Step by Step
Making smoked salmon cucumber bites is easier than you think and honestly kind of fun. No cooking no baking and barely any cleanup. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a platter full of party-ready snacks in under ten minutes.
Step 1: Whip the Boursin
Scoop your Boursin cheese into a small bowl and give it a good mix with a spoon or hand mixer. You want it smooth fluffy and easy to spread. This also brings out all those garlicky herby flavors. If you’re using cream cheese add a pinch of salt a squeeze of lemon and maybe some chopped dill to wake it up.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers
Cut your cucumbers into thick slices about a third of an inch. Think sturdy but still bite-sized. Lay them out on a paper towel and pat the tops dry. This keeps everything from sliding around later and gives your cheese something to stick to.
Step 3: Spread the Cheese
Use a small spoon or butter knife to add a dollop of whipped cheese to each cucumber slice. You don’t need a ton—just enough to cover the top. You can also use a piping bag if you’re going for that fancy finish but honestly no one’s judging your cheese swirls
Step 4: Add the Salmon
Tear your smoked salmon into small ribbons and gently place one piece on top of each cheesy cucumber slice. Fold or curl it a bit so it has a little height and shape. This is what makes the bites look impressive with almost zero effort.
Step 5: Top with Pickled Onions and Seeds
Place one or two slices of pickled onion on each bite depending on how bold you want the flavor. Then sprinkle with a pinch of nigella seeds or whatever crunchy flavorful topping you’re using.
Step 6: Finish with Chives and Lemon Zest
Grab a microplane or fine grater and zest a little lemon right over the top. Sprinkle chopped chives for color and that mild onion flavor. It’s the little details that make these really pop.
Step 7: Serve or Chill
You can serve these right away or pop them in the fridge for up to two hours before your guests arrive. Just make sure to keep them covered so they stay fresh and crisp.
That’s it. In less time than it takes to boil an egg you’ve got a gorgeous low-carb gluten-free appetizer that looks impressive and tastes even better. Up next we’ll tackle some common questions about these smoked salmon cucumber bites including how far ahead you can make them and what to swap if you’re missing ingredients.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites FAQs
Yes. Prep the cheese and cucumber slices up to two days in advance. Assemble a few hours before serving and keep chilled.
Totally. Cream cheese works great. Add herbs lemon zest or garlic powder for more flavor.
Both work. Cold-smoked is silky and elegant. Hot-smoked is flaky and bold. Use what you like or what fits your budget.
Yes. These bites are low-carb gluten-free and full of protein and healthy fats.
Capers gherkins or a tiny splash of vinegar all work well. Anything tangy to balance the richness.
Absolutely. They look fancy and hold up great on a tray. Perfect for brunch spreads or cocktail hours.
What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Looking to round out your menu? These recipes pair perfectly:
Food fondue party guide
Go all out with a DIY party platter alongside melty cheesy dips.
Honey garlic salmon bites
Sweet and savory with a sticky glaze — great for doubling up on salmon flavors.
Sheet pan shrimp boil
A hearty seafood option that turns your appetizer table into a full-on feast.
Garlic shrimp and broccoli
Warm and protein-packed, this dish balances the chill of your cucumber bites.
Crescent roll breakfast bites
Buttery and satisfying — the perfect sidekick for brunch gatherings.
Cowboy breakfast sliders
Add some hearty bites to go with your fresh and light salmon snacks.
Keto crockpot meals
Great for guests watching their carbs — pair with these no-bread bites.
Vegetarian Easter dinner
Add color and balance to your springtime table with fresh veggie options.
Recipe Card
Print
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 40 bites
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Freshen up your appetizer spread with these smoked salmon cucumber bites, loaded with whipped Boursin cheese and colourful pickles. They’re easy, packed with flavour party bites that are always crowd pleasers.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber
- 150g/5oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 150g/5oz Boursin cheese (1 box)
- ¼ cup pickled red onions, chopped
- A handful of chives, finely chopped
- 1 lemon, zested
Instructions
- Slice your cucumber into roughly 1/3″ thick rounds and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Whip the Boursin cheese until light and smooth using a food processor or by hand.
- Spoon a heaped teaspoon of whipped Boursin onto each cucumber slice.
- Top with chopped smoked salmon.
- Sprinkle with pickled red onions, chopped chives, and lemon zest.
Notes
PREP AHEAD: You can prep the bites a few hours in advance. Keep them chilled until serving. Whipped Boursin and cucumber slices can be prepared ahead and stored separately. INGREDIENT NOTES: Substitute Boursin with garlic & herb cream cheese. Smoked salmon trimmings work well and are budget-friendly. Swap nigella seeds for sesame, bagel seasoning, or dukkah. Alternate herbs include dill, basil, mint, thyme, or parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: party food
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 bites
- Calories: 133
- Sugar: 1.3g
- Sodium: 413mg
- Fat: 11.5g
- Saturated Fat: 5.9g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 4.7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: smoked salmon, cucumber bites, party food, appetizers
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites Notes and Tips
Prep Ahead Tips
Whip the cheese up to 5 days ahead and keep it sealed in the fridge. Slice cucumbers and store in a paper towel–lined container for up to 2 days. Assemble the bites no more than 2 hours before serving for the best texture.
Ingredient Swaps
No Boursin No problem. Use cream cheese goat cheese or even a herbed ricotta. Can’t find pickled onions Sub in capers chopped gherkins or a splash of vinegar. Out of nigella seeds Try black sesame bagel seasoning or dukkah.
Serving Suggestions
These smoked salmon cucumber bites are perfect for brunch trays holiday spreads or any kind of casual entertaining. Pair them with sparkling water rosé or a citrusy cocktail for a fresh well-rounded appetizer moment.
Storage
Assembled bites are best enjoyed the same day. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few hours but the cucumbers will soften over time.
For more creative baking inspiration and marketing ideas, explore the Pinterest or connect with us on Facebook.