Craving a breakfast that’s both light and satisfying? Look no further than our Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Slices!
This easy-to-make dish is perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick, nutritious meal.
Packed with protein and bursting with fresh flavors, it’ll kickstart your day and keep you full until lunch.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become your new favorite!
Ingredients and Substitutes
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty breakfast:
- 3 oz smoked salmon
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
- Lemon juice to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Can’t find some ingredients? No worries! Here are some substitutes:
Smoked salmon: Swap it out for smoked trout or canned tuna for a different twist.
Greek yogurt: Try cream cheese or avocado for a creamier texture.
Fresh dill: Dried dill works too, or try chives for a milder onion flavor.
Lemon juice: A splash of white wine vinegar can add a similar tang.
How to Make Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Slices
Step 1: Prep the Cucumber
Start by washing your cucumber thoroughly under cool running water. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Now, it’s time to slice! Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the cucumber into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
You want them thin enough to be bite-sized, but thick enough to hold the toppings without breaking.
Pro tip: If you have a mandoline slicer, this is a great time to use it! It’ll give you perfectly even slices every time.
Step 2: Prepare the Greek Yogurt Spread
In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with the chopped fresh dill. This combo adds a creamy, tangy base that complements the salmon perfectly.
If you’re using dried dill instead of fresh, start with about 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Give it a good stir to make sure the dill is evenly distributed throughout the yogurt.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Now comes the fun part – putting it all together! Lay out your cucumber slices on a serving platter or cutting board.
Using a small spoon or butter knife, spread a thin layer of the dill-yogurt mixture onto each cucumber slice. Don’t go overboard here; a little goes a long way.
Next, take your smoked salmon and tear it into small pieces. Place a piece of salmon on top of each cucumber slice.
The salmon should cover most of the yogurt spread but not hang over the edges of the cucumber.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
To really make the flavors pop, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over each salmon-topped cucumber slice.
The acidity of the lemon brightens up the whole dish and cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Finally, give each bite a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. This adds a subtle heat that ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best taste and texture, pop your assembled bites in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cucumber a refreshing crispness.
When you’re ready to eat, arrange the bites on a plate and enjoy! These make for a great grab-and-go breakfast, or you can serve them as an impressive appetizer at your next brunch gathering.
Nutrient Value
| Nutrient | Amount (each serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
How to Store and Freeze
These Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Slices are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store them, here’s how:
Short-term Storage
If you’ve made extra or want to prep ahead for the next day, you can store the assembled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
To prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy, place a paper towel in the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
Freezing Components
While you can’t freeze the assembled bites (cucumbers don’t freeze well), you can freeze some components separately:
- Smoked salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
- The Greek yogurt and dill mixture can be frozen in small portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen components and assemble fresh cucumber slices for the best taste and texture.
Benefits of Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Slices
Protein-Packed Goodness
One of the standout benefits of this dish is its high protein content. With 25 grams of protein per serving, it’s an excellent way to start your day.
Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Low-Carb and Low-Calorie
If you’re watching your carb intake or counting calories, this recipe is a winner.
With only 5 grams of carbs and 180 calories per serving, it’s a light yet satisfying option that won’t derail your dietary goals.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Smoked salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA.
These essential fats are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for heart and brain health.
Hydration Boost
Cucumbers are made up of about 95% water, making them a hydrating food choice. Starting your day with this water-rich veggie can help contribute to your daily fluid intake.
Nutrient-Dense
Despite being low in calories, this dish packs a nutritional punch.
Salmon provides vitamin D and B vitamins, while cucumber offers vitamins K and C. The Greek yogurt adds calcium and probiotics for gut health.
Quick and Easy
In our busy lives, finding time for a nutritious breakfast can be challenging. This recipe solves that problem by being incredibly quick and easy to prepare.
You can even assemble it the night before for a grab-and-go breakfast.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize.
You can add different herbs, swap out the protein, or change up the base to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re into meal prepping, this recipe is a dream.
You can slice the cucumbers and mix the yogurt spread in advance, then quickly assemble in the morning for a fresh, delicious breakfast.
By incorporating Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Slices into your breakfast routine, you’re not just enjoying a tasty meal – you’re giving your body a nutritious start to the day.
It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to fuel your mornings and set yourself up for success.
Whether you’re looking to up your protein intake, cut down on carbs, or just try something new and delicious, this recipe has got you covered.
So why not give it a try tomorrow morning? Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you!
