The other day I was putting together a quick snack for friends and wanted something that felt light but still a little fancy, so I made these cucumber bites with smoked salmon and a fluffy cheese topping. They’re the kind of cucumber appetizers that look impressive on the table but take hardly any time to pull together. The cool crunch of cucumber and cream cheese is always a classic combo, and folding in fresh herbs makes it taste even better. I used Boursin cheese for extra flavor, but you can basically replace it with any cream cheese and just mix in your own herbs. These little cucumber bites are fresh, creamy, and the perfect low calorie appetizer when you want something elegant but easy.
What You’ll Need to Make These Cucumber Bites
Cucumbers – slice them into thick rounds for the base. They’re crisp, juicy, and perfect for fresh cucumber appetizers.
Cream cheese – smooth and creamy, and you can mix in fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley to give it more flavor. This classic cucumber and cream cheese combo never disappoints or use a store-bought herb cream cheese.
Herbs – fresh or dried dill, chives, or parsley all work here, just chop them fine and mix into the cream cheese.
Smoked salmon – cut into ribbons and curled on top for that elegant finish.
Fresh dill – a little extra sprinkled over the top for color and freshness.
How to Make This Light and Healthy Cucumber Appetizer
- Slice cucumbers into thick rounds, about ½ inch each. Arrange them neatly on a serving platter.
- Make the herbed cream cheese – in a bowl, stir softened cream cheese with chopped herbs (dill, chives, parsley, or a mix). Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed.
- Assemble the bites – spoon or pipe a dollop of the herbed cream cheese onto each cucumber slice. Top each one with a ribbon of smoked salmon, curled gently for a fancy look.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Serve right away.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites – FAQ
Can I make these cucumber bites ahead of time?
You can slice the cucumbers and prep the cream cheese mixture earlier in the day. Assemble them just before serving so the cucumbers stay crisp and fresh.
What herbs work best with the cream cheese?
Dill is classic, but chives, parsley, or even a little basil all taste amazing. Fresh herbs give you the brightest flavor, but dried herbs work too if that’s what you have.
Do I need to use smoked salmon?
Not at all. You can swap it with prosciutto, turkey, or even roasted red peppers if you want to keep it vegetarian.
Are these a low calorie appetizer?
Yes! The cucumber base makes them light and refreshing while still giving you that creamy, savory topping. They’re perfect when you want something that feels indulgent but isn’t heavy.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Definitely. Garlic and herb or chive cream cheese is a great shortcut if you don’t feel like mixing in fresh herbs yourself.
Final Thoughts
These cucumber bites with cream cheese and smoked salmon are my go-to when I want an appetizer that feels effortless but still looks like I put in a lot of thought. The cucumbers keep everything light and refreshing, the cream cheese with herbs adds richness, and the smoked salmon makes it feel a little fancy. Whether it’s a holiday spread, a brunch table, or just a cozy night with friends, these little bites always disappear fast.
Healthy Cucumber Bites with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Appetizer
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced into ½-inch rounds (about 20–24 slices total)
- 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs, finely chopped (dill, chives, parsley, or a mix) or mix dry herbs.
- 6 ounces (170 g) smoked salmon, cut into thin ribbons
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
- Pinch of salt, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers into thick rounds, about ½ inch each. Arrange them neatly on a serving platter.
- Make the herbed cream cheese – in a bowl, stir softened cream cheese with chopped herbs (dill, chives, parsley, or a mix). Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed.
- Assemble the bites – spoon or pipe a dollop of the herbed cream cheese onto each cucumber slice. Top each one with a ribbon of smoked salmon, curled gently for a fancy look.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Serve right away.
