Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad: Amazing 10 Min Recipe

Smoked salmon cucumber salad has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly refreshing meal. I first discovered how amazing this combination could be on a sweltering summer afternoon, looking for something light yet satisfying. The crispness of the cucumber paired with the rich, silky smoked salmon, all bathed in a bright, tangy dressing, was pure magic. It’s the kind of dish that feels elegant enough for guests but is simple enough for a Tuesday lunch. This easy smoked salmon cucumber salad recipe is a game-changer for those busy days when you want something healthy without the fuss. Let’s get this delicious salad assembled!

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly quick to put together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute appetizers.

• Super Speedy: Ready in just 10 minutes, with no cooking required!
• Incredibly Healthy: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, it’s a guilt-free delight.
• Refreshing Flavor: The cool cucumber and bright dill dressing create a wonderfully crisp taste.
• Elegant Presentation: This smoked salmon cucumber salad looks as good as it tastes, perfect for entertaining.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to your liking with additions like avocado or capers.
• Light Meal Option: It’s satisfying without being heavy, ideal for a healthy smoked salmon cucumber salad.
• No Mayo Needed: Enjoy a creamy texture from Greek yogurt, making it a lighter choice.

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

Crafting this delightful smoked salmon cucumber salad recipe is a breeze with just a few fresh ingredients. The star, of course, is the silky 5 oz (approx. 150 g) smoked salmon, chosen for its rich flavor. We’ll pair it with a crisp 1 cucumber, which provides a wonderful coolness. For a touch of sharp bite, we use 1/4 red onion, finely sliced. The creamy dressing comes from 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt, offering a healthier alternative to mayo, and a splash of 1 teaspoon lemon juice for brightness. Freshness is key, so we add 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped, and for a briny pop, an optional 1 teaspoon capers. Finally, a pinch of salt, to taste, and pepper, to taste, brings it all together. This easy smoked salmon cucumber salad truly shines with its simple yet flavorful components.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

This recipe for smoked salmon cucumber salad is incredibly simple, proving that you don’t need to cook to create something truly delicious. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this light and flavorful dish comes together, perfect for any occasion.

1. Step 1: Start by preparing your vegetables. Finely slice the 1 cucumber and 1/4 red onion. For perfectly uniform slices that look as good as they taste, I love using a mandoline slicer, but a sharp knife works great too. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the red onion slices in ice water for about 5 minutes before adding them.
2. Step 2: While your onion soaks if you chose to do so, let’s make the dressing for this easy smoked salmon cucumber salad. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped. This creamy, tangy dressing is what brings everything together beautifully.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced cucumber and red onion to the bowl with your bright, herby dressing. Gently toss everything together, making sure each slice of cucumber and onion is lightly coated. You want the vegetables to absorb all that wonderful flavor.
4. Step 4: Now, it’s time to assemble this beautiful smoked salmon cucumber salad. Transfer the dressed cucumber and onion mixture to your serving plate or individual plates. Spread it out evenly.
5. Step 5: Arrange the 5 oz (approx. 150 g) smoked salmon slices artfully over the top of the dressed vegetables. I like to create little rosettes or simply lay them flat for a lovely presentation.
6. Step 6: If you’re using them, scatter the optional 1 teaspoon capers over the salmon and salad. They add a fantastic little burst of salty flavor!
7. Step 7: Finish your healthy smoked salmon cucumber salad by seasoning it with salt and freshly ground pepper to your preference. Taste a bit of cucumber to see what it needs.
8. Step 8: For the best flavor experience, chill the smoked salmon cucumber salad for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cool dressing to meld with the crisp cucumber and savory salmon, making every bite absolutely delightful.

Pro Tips for the Best Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

Want to elevate your smoked salmon cucumber salad game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this dish truly shine. These simple tips ensure your salad is always crisp, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, making it a standout appetizer or light meal.

• For an extra crisp cucumber, pat the slices dry with a paper towel before dressing them. This prevents a watery salad.
• Don’t skip chilling the salad! Letting it sit for at least 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use good quality smoked salmon; the flavor difference is noticeable and makes this easy smoked salmon cucumber salad extra special.
• If you find red onion too sharp, a quick soak in ice water for 5 minutes mellows its bite significantly.

What’s the secret to perfect Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad?

The real secret to a perfect smoked salmon cucumber salad is the balance of textures and flavors. Using a creamy Greek yogurt dressing with fresh dill and lemon juice provides a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the salmon, while crisp cucumber adds that essential crunch. For more insights on balancing flavors, you can explore resources on culinary techniques.

Can I make Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep components ahead! Store the dressed cucumber and onion mixture separately from the smoked salmon and capers. Combine everything just before serving to keep the cucumber crisp and the salmon fresh for this delightful smoked salmon cucumber salad appetizer. For more information on food preparation and storage, check out our food safety guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad?

A common pitfall is a watery salad; ensure your cucumber slices are patted dry. Another mistake is overmixing, which can bruise the delicate salmon. Lastly, don’t let it sit too long after dressing, or the cucumber will lose its crispness.

Best Ways to Serve Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

This versatile smoked salmon cucumber salad is fantastic as a light meal on its own, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to mop up any extra dressing. It also makes an elegant appetizer, served in small portions in martini glasses or on cucumber rounds for a beautiful presentation. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing this healthy smoked salmon cucumber salad with a simple quinoa pilaf or a bed of mixed greens. It’s also a wonderful addition to a brunch spread or a light picnic lunch, proving its worth as a perfect side dish. You can find more recipe ideas here.

Nutrition Facts for Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

When you’re looking for a light and healthy option, this smoked salmon cucumber salad really delivers. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients without being heavy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, based on our easy smoked salmon cucumber salad recipe:

• Calories: 116 kcal
• Fat: 3 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Protein: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: 592 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For detailed nutritional information, consult with a registered dietitian or explore resources on dietary guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

Proper storage is key to enjoying this delightful smoked salmon cucumber salad even after it’s made. Since this is a no-cook recipe, it’s best to keep the components separate if you plan on storing it for more than a day. For the freshest taste, cool any leftovers completely before storing. Place the dressed cucumber and onion mixture in an airtight container and store the smoked salmon and capers in a separate, tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. This way, your salad components will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended for this smoked salmon cucumber salad, as the texture of the cucumber and yogurt changes undesirably when thawed. If you’ve stored the components separately, simply combine them and serve chilled – no reheating is necessary for this refreshing dish! If you have any questions about our policies, please visit our terms of use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

What is smoked salmon cucumber salad?

A smoked salmon cucumber salad is a refreshing, no-cook dish that combines crisp cucumber slices with rich, silky smoked salmon. It’s typically dressed with a light, tangy mixture, often featuring ingredients like Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill. This salad is celebrated for its simplicity and healthy profile, making it a popular choice for a light meal or an elegant appetizer.

Can I use hot-smoked salmon instead of cold-smoked salmon?

Absolutely! While cold-smoked salmon offers a delicate, silky texture, hot-smoked salmon works wonderfully too. It has a firmer texture and a more pronounced smoky flavor. If using hot-smoked salmon for your easy smoked salmon cucumber salad, you might want to flake it into bite-sized pieces rather than arranging whole slices for a different, yet equally delicious, presentation.

How do I make this salad creamy without mayo?

The secret to a creamy, yet light, smoked salmon cucumber salad without mayo is using plain Greek yogurt. Its thick consistency and slightly tangy flavor create a wonderful base for the dressing. You can also experiment with other creamy alternatives like skyr, crème fraîche, or even a blend of avocado and lime juice if you’re looking for a dairy-free option for your creamy smoked salmon cucumber salad.

What are some good flavor additions to this salad?

This smoked salmon cucumber salad with dill is fantastic on its own, but you can easily amp up the flavor! Consider adding finely chopped capers for a briny pop, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some finely diced avocado for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley also complements the salmon beautifully, making your smoked salmon cucumber salad appetizer even more delightful.

Variations of Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad You Can Try

This versatile smoked salmon cucumber salad is a fantastic base for endless flavor explorations. If you’re seeking a creamy smoked salmon cucumber salad without dairy, try blending half an avocado with a tablespoon of lime juice and a splash of water for a rich, dairy-free dressing. For a heartier, low-carb option, I love adding finely diced bell peppers and a handful of arugula to the mix. Another delicious twist is to incorporate chopped hard-boiled eggs, transforming it into a more substantial light meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil can give your smoked salmon cucumber salad a delightful Asian-inspired flair. For any questions regarding our website or services, feel free to contact us.

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad: Amazing 10 Min Recipe

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This smoked salmon cucumber salad recipe is a quick, no-cook dish that’s both healthy and delicious. It features crisp cucumber, silky smoked salmon, a tangy yogurt dressing, and fresh dill, making it perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 oz (approx. 150 g) smoked salmon
• 1 cucumber
• 1/4 red onion
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon capers (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Finely slice the cucumber and red onion. A mandoline slicer can help create uniform slices.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and finely chopped dill to make the dressing.
3. Add the sliced cucumber and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Transfer the dressed cucumber and onion mixture to a serving plate or individual plates.
5. Arrange the smoked salmon slices over the salad.
6. Scatter the capers over the top, if using.
7. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
8. Chill the smoked salmon cucumber salad for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

• For a sharper onion flavor, soak the red onion slices in ice water for 5 minutes before adding them to the salad.
• If your cucumber is very watery, pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
• This salad can be made ahead, but store the dressing, cucumber, and onion separately and combine just before serving to maintain crispness.
• Do not freeze this salad as cucumbers and yogurt do not freeze well.
• Variations: Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream, crème fraîche, or skyr. Add chopped boiled egg or quinoa for extra protein. Mix in avocado chunks or baby greens like spinach or arugula. Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
• If you don’t have cold-smoked salmon, hot-smoked salmon or leftover grilled salmon can be used.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. half of the recipe)
• Calories: 116 kcal
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: 592 mg
• Fat: 3 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: 16 g
• Cholesterol: N/A

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