These smoked salmon cucumber canapés are the elegant, no-cook appetizer everyone loves. Crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy herbed spread and silky smoked salmon look fancy but take minutes to make. Tested twice for texture and balance — they deliver a cool crunch, fresh flavor, and picture-perfect presentation every time.

At a Glance

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 0 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Yield: 24 canapés
Best For: Holidays, Parties, Brunch, Easy Entertaining

Ingredients

1 large English cucumber
4 oz (115g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional topping: 1 tbsp capers or finely diced red onion

Swaps & Notes

Need	Swap	Note
Dairy-free	Use dairy-free cream cheese	Same creamy texture
Gluten-free	Naturally gluten-free	No crackers needed
No alcohol	Use lemon juice only	Bright, fresh flavor without wine or spirits
Vegetarian	Substitute smoked salmon with roasted red peppers or smashed avocado	Keeps color and presentation
Make-ahead	Assemble up to 2 hours ahead	Chill until serving time

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the base.
Wash and dry cucumber. Slice into ¼-inch rounds and pat dry with a paper towel. Arrange on a serving tray.
Make the spread.
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, lemon juice, dill, chives, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Assemble.
Spread or pipe a small dollop of herbed cream cheese on each cucumber slice. Top with a ribbon of smoked salmon. Garnish with dill or capers if desired.

Pro Tips & Variations

For even prettier bites: Roll smoked salmon into small rosettes before topping.
Low-carb and light: Each canapé is under 50 calories.
Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts.
No cream cheese on hand? Use Greek yogurt or hummus for a lighter option.
Brunch version: Serve on mini rice cakes or bagel crisps.
Make ahead: Assemble up to 2 hours before guests arrive; keep chilled.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a white platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
Serve at brunches, baby showers, or holiday gatherings.
Pair with sparkling water, cucumber-mint mocktails, or iced tea.
Add to an appetizer board with deviled eggs, fruit, and veggie sticks.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Keep covered and chilled for up to 24 hours.
Freeze: Not recommended; cucumber becomes watery.
Reheat: Not applicable — serve cold.
Food safety: Keep under 40°F (4°C); discard leftovers left out for more than 2 hours.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
A1: Yes, just peel and seed them for smoother slices.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes, up to 2 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Q3: What can I substitute for smoked salmon?
A3: Try roasted red pepper strips, smashed avocado, or cooked shrimp for a similar look and flavor balance.

Nutrition (per canapé)

Calories: 45; Protein: 3g; Carbs: 1g; Fat: 3g