Chatelaine Smoked Salmon Roll on Cucumber Recipe

If you’re searching for an appetizer that’s light, refreshing, and packed with gourmet flavors, smoked salmon rolls on cucumber slices is your answer. This dish is an excellent choice for dinner parties, special events, or a quick snack. It’s simple to prepare, yet delivers a sophisticated combination of flavors and textures, with the smoky richness of the salmon pairing beautifully with the fresh crunch of cucumber.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone who prefers easy-to-make dishes, this recipe will be a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process, provide some useful tips, and even suggest ways to personalize the dish to suit different tastes. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Rolls on Cucumber

To make this delicious appetizer, you’ll need to gather some fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Smoked Salmon (thinly sliced): 8–10 pieces (about 150g)
• Cucumber: 1 large cucumber, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz (softened)
• Dill (fresh, chopped): 2 tablespoons
• Capers: 2 tablespoons (optional)
• Red Onion (finely diced): 2 tablespoons
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
• Cracked Black Pepper: To taste

Optional Ingredients for Variations:

• Avocado (for a creamier texture)
• Chives (finely chopped, for extra flavor)
• Wasabi or Horseradish (for a spicy kick)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Base Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick. These cucumber slices will serve as the base for your smoked salmon rolls, providing a refreshing crunch to balance the rich flavors of the salmon and cream cheese.

Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for even, perfectly thin cucumber slices. If you prefer a bit more crunch, slightly thicker slices can also work.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with fresh chopped dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, finely diced red onion, and cracked black pepper. This mixture will serve as the filling inside the salmon rolls. If you’d like a little more flavor, you can add a touch of finely grated lemon zest or capers for some briny saltiness.

Step 3: Roll the Smoked Salmon Take a slice of smoked salmon and spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto one end. Carefully roll the salmon into a small tube or cylinder shape, with the cream cheese filling in the center. Depending on the size of the smoked salmon slices, you may need to cut them in half to get more manageable pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls on Cucumber Slices Once your salmon rolls are prepared, place each roll on top of a cucumber slice. The cucumber acts as both a refreshing base and a vehicle for easy serving. Press down gently to ensure the rolls stay in place.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Garnish your smoked salmon cucumber rolls with extra dill, capers, and perhaps a slice of lemon on the side for decoration. For added flair, sprinkle some extra black pepper or a few tiny bits of red onion on top.

Nutritional Benefits of Smoked Salmon Rolls

These smoked salmon cucumber rolls are not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits of the key ingredients:

1. Smoked Salmon:
   • Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
   • High in protein, making it a great source of energy and essential nutrients.
   • Contains important vitamins like B12, D, and selenium, all of which support overall well-being.
2. Cucumber:
   • Low in calories and hydrating, cucumbers are composed of over 95% water.
   • High in antioxidants and vitamin K, which is essential for bone health.
   • Provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
3. Cream Cheese:
   • Adds a creamy texture and provides a small amount of protein and calcium. You can opt for low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
4. Dill and Lemon:
   • Dill is a good source of vitamins A and C, while lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system and adding a zesty flavor.

Tips and Variations

1. Add Avocado for Extra Creaminess: If you’re a fan of avocado, spread a thin layer of mashed avocado on top of the cucumber slices before adding the salmon rolls. Avocado’s creamy texture pairs beautifully with the smoked salmon, and it adds a boost of healthy fats.
2. Spice It Up with Wasabi or Horseradish: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a small amount of wasabi or horseradish to the cream cheese mixture can create a delightful contrast to the cool cucumber and salmon.
3. Use Goat Cheese or Ricotta: If you want a slightly tangier flavor, substitute cream cheese with goat cheese or ricotta. This variation gives the rolls a more complex, earthy taste.
4. Pair with Crackers for a Different Texture: While cucumber is a great low-carb option, you can also serve the smoked salmon rolls on top of whole-grain crackers or crostini if you prefer a crunchier base.

Presentation Ideas

The presentation of your smoked salmon rolls can elevate this simple dish into an eye-catching appetizer. Here are a few ideas to make your dish stand out:

1. Platter Arrangement: Place the cucumber slices neatly on a white or wooden platter, arranging them in rows or a circular pattern. Garnish with sprigs of dill and small lemon wedges around the platter for a pop of color.
2. Individual Serving Plates: For more formal occasions, you can serve two or three cucumber salmon rolls on individual plates, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, capers, and fresh herbs.
3. Add Edible Flowers: For a stunning visual effect, garnish the plate with edible flowers like nasturtiums or violets, which complement the fresh, delicate look of the dish.

Conclusion

The Chatelaine-inspired smoked salmon rolls on cucumber slices recipe is an ideal appetizer for those who want to combine sophisticated flavors with ease of preparation. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this dish will leave a lasting impression on your guests. The combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh cucumber offers a balance of rich, savory, and refreshing flavors, while the optional ingredients allow for plenty of creative variations.

With its high nutritional value and easy adaptability, this dish is also a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. So the next time you’re looking for an appetizer that will impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen, turn to this smoked salmon roll recipe.