Refreshing Cucumber Slices with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon

Ingredients

For the Cucumbers:
– 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Spread:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Smoked Salmon:
– 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon

Instructions

Make the Cucumber Slices:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Toss to coat and let stand for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

Make the Cream Cheese Spread:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Stir in the sour cream, chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Appetizers:
1. Drain the cucumber slices and pat dry.
2. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice.
3. Top with a slice of smoked salmon.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.Make the Cream Cheese Spread:

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the sour cream, chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Appetizers:

1. Drain the cucumber slices and pat dry.
2. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice.
3. Top with a slice of smoked salmon.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Additional Context and Insights:

These Refreshing Cucumber Slices with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. They’re light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. The cucumbers provide a crisp and refreshing base, while the cream cheese and smoked salmon add a creamy and savory touch.

Cucumbers are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they’re also low in calories. This makes them a great choice for people who are looking for a healthy and refreshing snack.

Cream cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese that is made from milk and cream. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts. Cream cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, and it’s also a good source of probiotics.

Smoked salmon is a type of salmon that has been cured and smoked. It has a distinctive smoky flavor and a firm texture. Smoked salmon is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe cucumbers.
If you don’t have time to refrigerate the cream cheese spread for 30 minutes, you can still use it immediately. However, the flavors will be more pronounced if you refrigerate it first.
You can use any type of smoked salmon you like. However, for the best flavor, use a high-quality smoked salmon.
These appetizers can be served immediately or refrigerated for later. If you’re refrigerating them, bring them to room temperature before serving.

Variations:

For a vegetarian version of this appetizer, omit the smoked salmon and add a slice of avocado instead.
For a spicy version of this appetizer, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese spread.
For a more decadent version of this appetizer, use a flavored cream cheese, such as chive cream cheese or dill cream cheese.