Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Cups

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Cups are the perfect combination of refreshing crispness and creamy luxury. This elegant appetizer features cool cucumber slices hollowed into small cups, filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, lemon, dill, and capers, then topped with delicate ribbons of smoked salmon.

They’re light yet flavorful, fancy yet easy to prepare — making them ideal for brunches, cocktail parties, or festive gatherings. Every bite delivers a refreshing crunch of cucumber, the silky richness of cream cheese, and the smoky depth of salmon.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s beautiful, bite-sized, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those appetizers that makes guests go “Wow, did you really make these yourself?” yet requires no complicated cooking at all.

The combination of cool cucumber, creamy cheese, and smoky salmon feels luxurious but guilt-free. It’s low-carb, protein-rich, and perfect for anyone looking for something light and elegant to serve — whether it’s a brunch, baby shower, or dinner party.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this recipe because:

• It’s no-cook, quick, and effortless to make.
• It’s visually stunning — perfect for parties or entertaining.
• It’s healthy yet indulgent, balancing creaminess with freshness.
• It’s versatile — great as an appetizer, light snack, or brunch bite.
• It’s customizable — you can tweak the filling to your taste (herbs, spices, or even a spicy kick).

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 12 cucumber cups (serves 4–6 people)
• Calories: Approximately 80 kcal per serving (2 cups)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Modern / Fusion (inspired by European flavors)
• Course: Appetizer, Snack, Party Hors d’oeuvre, Brunch

Ingredients

For the Cucumber Cups:

• 2 large cucumbers
• ½ tsp salt (optional, for sprinkling)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried dill)
• 1 tbsp capers, finely chopped (optional but recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 3 oz (85 g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced and cut into small strips
• Fresh dill sprigs or chives, for garnish
• Optional: a small sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or paprika

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cut and hollow cucumbers to form cups.
2. Prepare the creamy filling by mixing cream cheese, lemon, and herbs.
3. Pipe or spoon the filling into cucumber cups.
4. Top with smoked salmon and garnish.
5. Chill and serve.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

• Wash cucumbers and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
• Using a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out the center of each slice to form a shallow “cup.”
• Be careful not to scoop all the way through — you want a base to hold the filling.
• Optionally, lightly sprinkle the inside with a little salt to draw out excess moisture.
• Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and capers.
• Mix until smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Fill the Cucumber Cups

• Spoon or pipe (using a piping bag or zip-lock bag with a corner cut) the cream cheese mixture into each cucumber cup.
• Fill just to the top for a neat, elegant look.

Step 4: Add the Smoked Salmon

• Roll or fold small pieces of smoked salmon and place them gently on top of each filled cucumber cup.
• Garnish with fresh dill sprigs, chives, or a light sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

• Chill the cucumber cups in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving.
• Serve them cold for the best flavor and freshness.

How to Serve

Serve these cucumber cups on a chilled platter or elegant tray. They pair beautifully with:

• Sparkling wine, champagne, or white wine
• Brunch platters with eggs and croissants
• Appetizer spreads alongside cheese boards or fruit platters

They’re great for:

• Brunch buffets
• Cocktail parties
• Holiday gatherings
• Baby or bridal showers
• Fancy at-home appetizers

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and thinner skin.
• Make sure cucumbers are dry before filling to prevent sogginess.
• Chill your filling slightly for easier piping.
• Use a star piping tip for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Add a touch of horseradish or wasabi to the filling for a little kick.

Variations

1. Avocado Cream Cups: Replace cream cheese with mashed avocado and lime juice.
2. Spicy Salmon Cups: Add a dash of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the filling.
3. Herb Lovers’ Delight: Mix in parsley, basil, or tarragon with the cream cheese.
4. Caprese Cups: Use cherry tomato halves, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze instead of salmon.
5. Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and omit smoked salmon — top with roasted red pepper slices or vegan “lox.”

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Best enjoyed freshly made, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• If storing, place a paper towel under the cups to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing:

• Not recommended — cucumbers lose their crisp texture and the cream cheese can separate upon thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Melon baller or small spoon (for hollowing cucumbers)
• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or spatula
• Piping bag or plastic bag (for neat filling)
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these cucumber cups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cups and filling separately and assemble them just before serving.

Q2: What kind of smoked salmon should I use?
Cold-smoked salmon (like lox) works best because it’s tender, smooth, and not overly salty.

Q3: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes! Garlic herb or chive-flavored cream cheese works beautifully and saves time.

Q4: What if I don’t have capers?
You can skip them or replace with finely chopped olives or pickles for a similar tang.

Q5: How do I keep the cucumber cups crisp?
Make sure to pat them dry and refrigerate before serving — moisture is the enemy of crunch.

Conclusion

These Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Cups are the definition of simple elegance. Fresh, creamy, smoky, and crunchy — they check all the boxes for a perfect appetizer.

They’re healthy yet decadent, quick yet impressive, and versatile enough to fit into any menu — from brunch to cocktails. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re always a crowd favorite. Serve them chilled, beautifully garnished, and watch them disappear within minutes!