Ingredients for 8 servings
- 200 g double cream cheese (cream cheese with a rich, smooth texture)
- 200 g smoked salmon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon quark (a soft, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt but thicker)
- 1 tablespoon salad mayonnaise (such as Miracle Whip)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 sprig fresh thyme, preferably lemon thyme, for a subtle citrus flavor
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cucumber
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
For garnish:
- Red bell pepper, cut into small cubes
- Chives, cut into small pieces
- Fresh dill, small sprigs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Base: Start by making the smooth, creamy base for your topping. Take 200 g of double cream cheese and stir it well to get a smooth consistency. This creamy base will serve as the foundation for the flavorful salmon topping.
2. Add the Smoked Salmon and Fresh Herbs: Once the cream cheese is smooth, chop 200 g of smoked salmon into small cubes and add it to the cream cheese. Smoked salmon brings a rich, savory flavor to the spread, enhancing the dish with its smoky undertones. Add 1 tablespoon of quark, which is a thick and creamy dairy product that adds a tangy flavor and helps balance the richness of the salmon and cream cheese. To add some extra creaminess and a slight tang, mix in 1 tablespoon of salad mayonnaise, such as Miracle Whip, which adds a smooth texture to the mixture.
3. Add the Fresh Lemon Juice and Seasonings: Squeeze 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice into the mixture to brighten up the flavor with a hint of citrus. Fresh lemon juice complements the smoky flavor of the salmon and adds a refreshing zing. Next, add freshly chopped chives and parsley, about 1 tablespoon each, for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. For added freshness and complexity, chop a sprig of fresh thyme, preferably lemon thyme, which adds a lovely citrusy note. Stir everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Season to Taste: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. The amount of salt you need will depend on the saltiness of the smoked salmon, so be sure to taste the mixture before adding more salt. Blend everything thoroughly using a hand mixer for about one minute, which will help achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This step is important to ensure that all the flavors are well incorporated and that the mixture is creamy and fluffy.
5. Prepare the Cucumber: Wash one cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thick rounds. The cucumber will serve as the base for the creamy salmon mixture, providing a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the richness of the cheese and salmon spread. Cutting the cucumber into thick slices ensures that they will hold up well under the weight of the topping and not become too soggy.
6. Assemble the Appetizer: Now, it’s time to assemble the appetizer. Take each cucumber slice and place a teaspoon of the creamy cheese and salmon mixture on top. Use a spoon or a small spatula to spread the mixture evenly over each cucumber slice, making sure it covers the entire surface. The creamy topping should form a thick layer that enhances the crunch of the cucumber while adding a delightful flavor.
7. Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Veggies: Once all the cucumber slices are topped with the creamy salmon mixture, it’s time to garnish them. You can get creative with the garnishes, but fresh dill, chopped chives, and small cubes of red bell pepper work beautifully here. The red bell pepper adds a splash of color and a mild sweetness that balances out the smoky and creamy elements of the dish. Fresh dill provides a fragrant, herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with the salmon, while the chives add a mild onion-like flavor.
8. Serving Tips: This dish is perfect for serving as a light appetizer or snack. It’s also a great option for gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare and offers a sophisticated, flavorful bite. However, the key to making these appetizers truly shine is to assemble them just before serving. If you make the salmon and cheese mixture ahead of time, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. However, don’t cut the cucumber until just before serving, as the cucumber slices may dry out and lose their freshness if left out for too long.
9. Other Ways to Serve: Aside from serving this mixture on cucumber slices, this salmon cream spread also works well as a spread for bread or crackers. You can use it as a topping for toast, a filling for wraps, or even a dip for vegetable sticks. The creamy salmon mixture is versatile and can be used in many different ways, making it a great addition to your repertoire of appetizers and snacks.
Tips for Success:
- If you’re short on time or want to add an extra dimension of flavor, you can toast the bread before using it as a base for the mixture. Toasted bread adds crunch and helps the cream cheese mixture stay in place without getting soggy.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a less intense smoked salmon or even use fresh salmon if preferred. Just be sure to cook it properly and chop it into small pieces before mixing it into the cheese base.
Conclusion: This creamy smoked salmon and cheese topping on cucumber slices is a perfect dish for anyone looking to create a light, flavorful appetizer with minimal effort. The combination of the smooth cream cheese, flavorful smoked salmon, and fresh herbs creates a delicious contrast in textures and flavors. The cucumber provides a refreshing crunch, making every bite enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a light lunch, or just looking for a healthy snack, this recipe will surely impress your guests. Enjoy this refreshing, flavorful dish, and feel free to experiment with different herbs and garnishes to make it your own.
