I love quick appetizers, especially when they feature something as delicious as smoked salmon. Today, I’m sharing two of my favorite easy smoked salmon bites perfect for any gathering or a light snack.
These recipes are simple to put together, use fresh ingredients, and always get compliments. You’ll find them great for making ahead too!
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Delicious Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
These blini bites are a classic for a reason. They offer a lovely soft texture with the rich taste of smoked salmon.
They look fancy but are incredibly simple to prepare, making them ideal for parties or a relaxed weekend treat.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Blini Bites
- Blini: You can find mini blinis in most grocery stores, often in the freezer or deli section. Warm them slightly for the best texture.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is soft before you start. This makes it much easier to spread smoothly.
- Fresh Dill: This herb adds a bright, fresh flavor that pairs so well with salmon. Don’t skip it if you can help it!
What You Need for Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
- 12-15 mini blinis
- 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
⏱️ Time: 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 12-15 bites
How to Make Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped fresh dill and lemon zest if you are using it. Add a pinch of black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Assemble the Blini Bites
Take each blini and spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture on top. Cut your smoked salmon into small pieces or strips that fit nicely on the blini. Place a piece of smoked salmon over the cream cheese.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Arrange your finished blini bites on a serving platter. For a nice touch, sprinkle a little extra fresh dill on top of each bite before serving.
📝 Final Note
These bites are best served fresh, but you can prepare them an hour or two ahead of time and keep them chilled in the refrigerator.
Quick Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
If you’re looking for something lighter and crisp, these cucumber bites are perfect. They offer a refreshing crunch and bright flavors.
These are naturally gluten-free and a wonderful way to enjoy smoked salmon without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Cucumber Bites
- Cucumber Choice: An English cucumber works best here because it has fewer seeds and thinner skin, meaning less water and a crisper bite.
- Cream Cheese Spread: Consider using a herbed cream cheese for extra flavor, or plain cream cheese with a little garlic powder and chives mixed in.
- Draining Cucumber: If you want to make these ahead, you can lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to remove excess water. This helps prevent sogginess.
What You Need for Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
- 1 English cucumber
- 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened (plain or herbed)
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- Pinch of black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
⏱️ Time: 10 minutes🍽️ Yields: 10-12 bites
How to Make Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Step 1: Prepare Cucumber Slices
Wash the English cucumber well. Slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for color and extra fiber. Lay the slices on a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture.
Step 2: Spread and Top
Take each cucumber slice and spread about a teaspoon of softened cream cheese on top. Cut your smoked salmon into strips or small pieces that fit the cucumber rounds. Place a piece of salmon on top of the cream cheese.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve Fresh
Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh chives over each bite. A tiny crack of black pepper can also add a nice finish. Arrange on a platter and serve right away, perhaps with lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of brightness.
📝 Final Note
These cucumber bites are best when they are very fresh and crisp. They are wonderful for a light lunch or a snack that won’t make you feel full.