Chatelaine Smoked Salmon Rolls On Cucumber Recipe
Table of Contents
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rolls
A sophisticated no-cook appetizer that pairs the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with cool, crisp cucumber ribbons. These elegant rolls are perfect for entertaining or as a light, nutritious meal.
Introduction
Smoked salmon cucumber rolls combine premium wild-caught salmon with refreshing cucumber for an appetizer that’s as healthy as it is delicious. These rolls require no cooking, making them perfect for warm days and busy hosts. Their beautiful presentation and nutritious ingredients make them ideal for everything from casual brunches to elegant cocktail parties.
Key Ingredients
- 200 grams high-quality wild-caught smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 medium cucumber
- 4 oz (113 grams) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Garnishes and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Chives (for garnish)
- Avocado slices
- Radishes, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese
- Mixed fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley)
- Chopped nuts for texture
- Ground black pepper to taste
Vegetarian/Vegan Substitutions
- Roasted eggplant or zucchini (instead of salmon)
- Dairy-free cream cheese
- Hummus
- Mashed avocado
Equipment Needed
- Sharp vegetable peeler
- Cutting board
- Spreading knife
- Toothpicks or skewers (for securing rolls)
- Paper towels (for drying cucumber)
Smoked Salmon
The star of this dish is high-quality, wild-caught smoked salmon. Look for pieces with a vibrant pink color and fresh aroma. Beyond its rich flavor, smoked salmon provides essential omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.
Cucumber
Fresh cucumber serves as both wrapper and cooling complement to the salmon. Its high water content and crisp texture make it perfect for creating elegant ribbons, while adding vital nutrients like Vitamin K and antioxidants.
Cream Cheese
The creamy binding element can be traditional cream cheese or elevated with herbs like dill or chives. The key is applying just enough to hold ingredients together without overwhelming the delicate salmon flavor.
Base Recipe Quantities
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Smoked Salmon | 200 grams |
Cucumber | 1 medium |
Cream Cheese | 4 oz (113 grams) |
Fresh Dill | 2 tablespoons |
Capers (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
Red Onion (finely diced) | 2 tablespoons |
Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Method
Creating Cucumber Ribbons
- Thoroughly wash and dry the cucumber
- Using a sharp vegetable peeler, create long, uniform ribbons by:
- Starting at one end, apply steady pressure while drawing the peeler lengthwise
- Rotate the cucumber after each strip
- Aim for ribbons approximately 1/8 inch thick
- Continue until you reach the seedy core
Assembly Instructions
- Lay cucumber ribbons flat on a clean work surface
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each ribbon
- Place a slice of smoked salmon atop the cream cheese
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the cucumber
- Secure with a toothpick if needed
- Garnish with fresh dill and capers
Nutritional Benefits
Nutrient | Salmon | Cucumber |
---|---|---|
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | High | Low |
Vitamin K | Low | High |
Vitamin C | Moderate | High |
Hydration | Moderate | High |
Variations
Vegetarian/Vegan Alternatives
- Replace salmon with thinly sliced roasted vegetables
- Substitute cream cheese with:
- Dairy-free cream cheese
- Hummus
- Avocado spread
- Add fresh herbs and microgreens for extra flavor
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare components up to 24 hours in advance
- Store prepared ingredients separately in the refrigerator
- Assemble rolls just before serving
- Consume assembled rolls within 24 hours
Chef’s Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier spreading
- Don’t overfill the rolls
- Keep cucumber ribbons uniform for best presentation
- Chill ingredients before assembly for better structure
About the Author
Esme Baker is a culinary expert specializing in healthy, no-cook appetizers and fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With over a decade of experience developing recipes for leading food publications, she focuses on creating accessible, nutritious dishes that don’t compromise on flavor.
Recipe developed by Esme Baker
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8-10 rolls