Smoked Salmon Cottage Cheese Cucumber Cups

Introduction

When you’re looking for an elegant appetizer that won’t take hours to prepare, these smoked salmon cucumber cups are a perfect choice. I’ve served them at everything from casual brunches to upscale dinner parties, and they never fail to impress. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy cottage cheese, and rich smoked salmon creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

You’ll love how these bite-sized treats come together in minutes, yet look like they took hours to make. The best part? They’re naturally low-carb and packed with protein, making them a smart choice for health-conscious guests. I especially appreciate how the crisp cucumber cups provide a fresh, crunchy vessel that keeps the filling perfectly contained – no messy spills or droopy crackers to worry about.

Recipe

This elegant appetizer combines the fresh crunch of cucumber with a luxurious filling of smoked salmon and cottage cheese. The result is a perfect bite-sized hors d’oeuvre that’s both visually striking and delicious, while remaining light and invigorating.

The beauty of these cucumber cups lies in their simplicity and sophistication. Each component plays a vital role – from the crisp cucumber vessel to the creamy filling and the final garnish of fresh dill – creating a balanced appetizer that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

• 1 large English cucumber
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Additional smoked salmon pieces for garnish
• Fresh dill sprigs for garnish

Slice the cucumber into 1-inch rounds and hollow out the center of each piece using a melon baller or small spoon, leaving the bottom intact to create a cup. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped smoked salmon, and chopped dill, mixing until well incorporated. Fill each cucumber cup with the salmon mixture using a small spoon or piping bag. Top each cup with a small piece of smoked salmon, a sprig of fresh dill, and a light sprinkle of black pepper.

For best results, prepare these cups no more than 2 hours before serving. If needed, you can drain the cottage cheese through a fine-mesh strainer for 30 minutes before mixing with other ingredients to achieve a thicker consistency. Store assembled cups in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap, until ready to serve. Always choose firm, fresh cucumbers and pat the cups dry with paper towels after hollowing to guarantee the filling stays in place.

Prep Time

Preparing these elegant smoked salmon cucumber cups takes approximately 20-25 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time spent on careful assembly. You’ll need about 10 minutes to slice and hollow out the cucumber rounds – I’ve found that using a melon baller makes this task much easier. The filling comes together quickly in just 5 minutes, combining the cottage cheese, salmon, and dill until well-blended.

The final 10 minutes is where you’ll really get to show off your presentation skills. Take your time arranging the filling in each cup and adding those finishing touches. Don’t rush this part – I’ve learned that steady hands and patience make all the difference in creating picture-perfect appetizers that’ll wow your guests.

Equipment needed

To make these cucumber cups a breeze, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools I always keep handy. The most important tool is a melon baller or small spoon, which I use to hollow out the cucumber rounds with precision. You’ll also need a sharp knife for clean cuts – I prefer my chef’s knife for this task.

Other essential items include:

• Cutting board (preferably non-slip)
• Paper towels
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small spoon for filling
• Measuring spoons
• Serving platter
• Plastic wrap (if prepping ahead)

I’ve found that having these tools ready before starting makes the assembly process smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than searching for equipment with salmon-covered hands!

Basic Cooking Method and Time

Making these smoked salmon cucumber cups requires no actual cooking – I love that it’s all about simple assembly! You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes preparing these elegant appetizers from start to finish. First, slice your cucumber into rounds and hollow out the centers, which takes about 5 minutes. Next, mix your cottage cheese with the chopped smoked salmon and dill – that’s another 5 minutes tops. I’ve found that using a small spoon works perfectly for filling each cup, and you’ll want to take your time here to keep things neat. The final garnishing with salmon pieces, dill sprigs, and pepper goes quickly. Trust me, the most time-consuming part is resisting the urge to snack on them while you’re assembling!

Cooking Steps

Now that you’ve got your timing down, let’s walk through the exact steps to assemble these beautiful bites. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Slice your English cucumber into 1-inch rounds using a sharp knife
2. Using a melon baller or small spoon, hollow out the center of each round, leaving the bottom intact
3. Pat the cucumber cups dry with paper towels
4. Mix cottage cheese, finely chopped smoked salmon, and chopped dill in a bowl
5. Spoon the filling mixture into each cucumber cup, being careful not to overfill
6. Top each cup with a small piece of smoked salmon
7. Garnish with a fresh dill sprig
8. Finish with a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper

I love how these cups come together so quickly – they’re truly a breeze to make!

Step 1. Slice and Scoop Cucumbers

While slicing cucumbers might seem straightforward, getting the perfect rounds for these appetizer cups takes a bit of technique. I’ve found that using a sharp knife to cut 1-inch thick slices at a slight angle gives you more surface area to work with. You’ll want to look for slices that can stand up steadily on their own.

For the scooping part, I like to use a melon baller or small measuring spoon to hollow out the center. Don’t go all the way through – leave about ¼ inch at the bottom to hold your filling. If you’re working with a particularly seedy cucumber, remove the seeds first, then shape your cup. Remember to save those cucumber centers for salads or smoothies; there’s no need to waste them!

Step 2. Mix Filling Ingredients Together

Combining the filling ingredients requires a delicate balance to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. In a medium bowl, gently fold together one cup of cottage cheese with 4 ounces of finely chopped smoked salmon. You’ll want to break up any large curds in the cottage cheese first to guarantee a smoother consistency.

Next, add two tablespoons of fresh chopped dill – I love how this brightens up the mixture with its distinctive taste. Season with a few cracks of black pepper, then give everything a final gentle stir. Don’t overmix, as you’ll want to keep some texture in the filling. Take a quick taste and adjust the proportions if needed. I’ve found that letting this mixture rest for 15 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3. Fill Cucumber Cups

Once you’ve prepared the filling mixture, it’s time for the fun part – assembling these elegant appetizers. Take your hollowed cucumber rounds and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. You’ll want to work with a steady hand as you spoon the salmon-cottage cheese mixture into each cup.

I like to use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each cucumber cup neatly, making sure not to overfill them. Top each one with a delicate piece of smoked salmon and a fresh sprig of dill. For the finishing touch, add a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Trust me, these little details make all the difference in presentation. Remember to keep the filled cups chilled until you’re ready to serve them to your guests.

Step 4. Garnish With Dill Sprigs

For the perfect finishing touch, fresh dill sprigs add both visual appeal and a burst of herbal flavor to these elegant cucumber cups. You’ll want to select small, delicate sprigs that stand upright without overwhelming the presentation. I’ve found that placing one sprig at a slight angle creates the most appealing look.

Before adding the dill, make sure the cottage cheese mixture is slightly mounded in each cup. Then, gently press the dill sprig into the filling at a 45-degree angle, positioning it slightly off-center. If you’re working ahead, keep the dill sprigs in a damp paper towel until you’re ready to garnish. Trust me – there’s nothing quite like the pop of fresh green dill against the pale filling and crisp cucumber to make these appetizers truly Instagram-worthy.

Step 5. Season With Lemon Juice

A light spritz of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire flavor profile of these smoked salmon cucumber cups. You’ll want to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the filled cups just before serving – I’ve found that this final touch really makes the flavors pop. Don’t overdo it though; a gentle squeeze is all you need.

Here’s a pro tip I learned from years of making these: roll your lemon on the counter first, pressing down firmly with your palm. This simple technique helps release more juice and guarantees you’ll get every last drop. If you’re prepping ahead, keep a lemon wedge handy and give each cup a quick squeeze right as you’re putting them out for guests.

Customization Options

While these smoked salmon cucumber cups are delicious as-is, I’ve discovered countless ways to customize them based on your preferences and what’s in your fridge. You can swap the cottage cheese for cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or even whipped ricotta for a different texture and taste. I love adding capers for a briny pop or red onion for extra crunch.

For herbs, try switching up the dill with chives, basil, or tarragon. If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, try using canned tuna, chopped shrimp, or even diced avocado for a vegetarian option. Sometimes I’ll add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to give these bites an extra kick. The possibilities are truly endless!

Ingredients list (with precise measurements)

The precise measurements needed for these elegant cucumber cups come straight from my most-tested version of the recipe. I’ve found these proportions create the perfect balance of flavors while making exactly 12 appetizer-sized portions:

• 1 large English cucumber, cut into twelve 1-inch rounds
• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese, drained
• 4 ounces smoked salmon (plus 12 small pieces for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Extra dill sprigs for garnishing

I’ll often double this recipe when I’m hosting larger gatherings, and I’ve learned that using full-fat cottage cheese makes a big difference in the filling’s texture. Trust me on this one – I’ve tried every variation, and these measurements consistently deliver the best results.

Storage Information

Now that you’ve got your measurements dialed in, proper storage becomes the next key piece of the puzzle. You’ll want to keep your prepped ingredients separate until you’re ready to assemble these delightful bites. Store your sliced cucumber rounds in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and they’ll stay crisp for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Your salmon-cottage cheese mixture can be prepared ahead and stored in a sealed container for up to a day, though I’ve found it tastes best when made fresh. Once you’ve assembled the cups, they’re best enjoyed within 2-3 hours. If you need to transport them, place them in a single layer in a chilled container, and don’t stack them – trust me on this one!

Health Benefits or Special Features

As someone who’s always looking for nutritious party appetizers, I can confidently say these smoked salmon cucumber cups pack a serious health punch. You’ll get a fantastic dose of omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, while the cottage cheese provides essential protein and calcium. I love how the cucumber base keeps these bites low-carb and hydrating.

What really makes these special is their versatility – they’re perfect for different dietary needs. If you’re watching your calories, you’ll appreciate that each cup contains less than 50 calories. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly. I’ve served these at countless gatherings, and even my health-conscious friends can’t resist coming back for seconds. The fresh dill adds both flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Prep Time

Making these healthy appetizers won’t take up much of your precious party prep time. You’ll need about 15 minutes to slice and hollow out the cucumber rounds, and another 10 minutes to mix and fill them. I’ve found that using a melon baller makes quick work of creating the perfect cucumber cups.

The salmon-cottage cheese mixture comes together in just 5 minutes – simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and give them a good stir. If you’re short on time, you can prep the filling the day before. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the cups using a small spoon or piping bag. The final garnishing with dill sprigs and pepper takes just a minute or two, making the total prep time around 30 minutes.

Cook Time

Since this appetizer requires no actual cooking, you’ll be thrilled to know the cook time is zero minutes! The only preparation involved is assembling your ingredients and putting them together with care. While traditional appetizers might keep you hovering over a hot stove, these elegant bites let you stay cool and collected.

I love that you won’t need to worry about preheating ovens or monitoring cooking temperatures. Simply slice your cucumbers, mix your filling, and assemble your cups. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate how this no-cook recipe gives you more time to focus on other party preparations or mingle with your guests. The only waiting time you’ll encounter is if you choose to chill the assembled cups briefly before serving.

Total Time

While the cook time may be zero, you’ll want to set aside about 20-25 minutes total to create these elegant smoked salmon cucumber cups. Most of your time will be spent on prep work – carefully slicing cucumbers, scooping out the centers, and mixing the filling.

I’ve found that working in stages helps manage the time efficiently. Start by preparing your cucumber cups, which takes about 10 minutes. Then spend 5 minutes mixing your cottage cheese filling with the smoked salmon and dill. The final 5-10 minutes will be dedicated to assembly and garnishing. If you’re making these for a party, you’ll love how quickly they come together. Just remember to leave a few minutes at the end for cleaning up and arranging them beautifully on your serving platter.

Yield

One large English cucumber typically yields 12-15 appetizer-sized cups, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. I’ve found that you’ll want to plan for about 2-3 pieces per guest when serving these as part of a larger appetizer spread. If you’re hosting a cocktail party where these are the main hors d’oeuvres, you might want to double the recipe.

For a standard dinner party of 6-8 people, one cucumber’s worth of cups should be plenty. But here’s a pro tip: I always make a few extra since these tend to disappear quickly! The filling recipe can easily be scaled up or down – just maintain the ratio of about 2 parts cottage cheese to 1 part smoked salmon for the best flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

As you master these elegant smoked salmon cucumber cups, you’ll discover they’re more than just another appetizer – they’re a conversation starter that brings people together. Their vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and sophisticated presentation make them perfect for any gathering, from casual brunches to formal cocktail parties.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations once you’ve mastered the basic recipe. Try mixing in capers for extra tang, or swap the cottage cheese with cream cheese for a different texture. I’ve found that guests always appreciate the thoughtful combination of flavors and the healthy twist on traditional appetizers. Remember, you can prep components ahead of time, but assembly should wait until just before serving to maintain that perfect crunch and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese – it’ll create a tangier, smoother filling. Just make sure you’re using thick, strained yogurt to maintain the right consistency.

How Far in Advance Can I Slice the Cucumbers?

Like fresh-picked flowers, cucumbers quickly lose their snap. You’ll want to slice them no more than 2-3 hours before serving. If you slice too early, they’ll become limp and watery.

What Type of Smoked Salmon Works Best for This Recipe?

You’ll want to use cold-smoked salmon (lox) for its delicate texture and rich flavor. Norwegian or Scottish varieties work particularly well, and pre-sliced pieces are easiest to incorporate.

Will Persian Cucumbers Work as a Substitute for English Cucumbers?

Like tiny jewels on a platter, Persian cucumbers can work, but they’re smaller than English ones. You’ll need to adjust your portions and might want to cut them into shorter rounds.

Can These Appetizers Be Frozen for Later Use?

You shouldn’t freeze these appetizers – the cucumber will become mushy, and the cottage cheese’s texture will break down. Instead, you can prep components separately and assemble just before serving.

Conclusion

You’ll love how these smoked salmon cottage cheese cucumber cups disappear faster than ice cream on a summer day. They’re not just appetizers – they’re conversation starters that’ll have your guests begging for the recipe. With their perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors, these elegant bites will transform you into the host everyone’s talking about. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra!