How to Make the Perfect Smoked Salmon Cucumber Stack
Scandinavian-Inspired · Easy · 8 min · 2 servings
Layers of smoked salmon cream cheese and cucumber create an elegant protein-rich snack that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant but takes only minutes to assemble. It is a sophisticated yet incredibly simple snack that works for any time of day.
Why this recipe works
This Smoked Salmon Cucumber Stack recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 8 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 185 calories with 16g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 large English cucumber sliced into thick rounds
- 100 grams smoked salmon slices
- 3 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon capers drained
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill
- 0.25 teaspoon lemon zest
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumber Base
Slice the English cucumber into rounds approximately half an inch thick. Pat each slice dry with a paper towel to ensure the cream cheese spread stays in place without sliding.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Using a small spatula or butter knife spread a thin even layer of whipped cream cheese onto each cucumber round making sure to cover the surface completely.
Step 3: Layer the Smoked Salmon
Tear or fold the smoked salmon into small pieces and place a portion on top of the cream cheese layer on each cucumber round.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top each stack with one or two capers a small sprig of fresh dill and a tiny pinch of lemon zest. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whipped cream cheese → labneh or strained Greek yogurt for a tangier lower-fat option
- capers → finely diced red onion for a sharper crunch and color contrast
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using regular block cream cheese instead of whipped which is too thick and tears the cucumber when spreading
- Assembling the stacks too far in advance which causes the cucumber to release moisture and make the cream cheese layer soggy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 185 calories, 16g protein, 5g carbs, 11g fat, 1g fiber.
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