Name: Cucumber Canapés with Smoked Salmon Mousse
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: PT-488183H49M19S
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 150 g (5 oz) smoked salmon; 150 g (5 oz) cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1/3 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped (or chives); 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 3 long cucumbers (English/Telegraph) or 6 standard cucumbers; Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish); Lemon slices (for serving)

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Cucumber Canapés with Smoked Salmon Mousse are an elegant and refreshing appetizer perfect for parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings. With cool cucumber rounds filled with a creamy, herby salmon mousse, these bite-sized treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. They’re easy to make ahead, light, and full of flavor, making them an impressive addition to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant presentation for parties and special occasions.
A refreshing combination of creamy mousse and crisp cucumber.
Can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving.
Packed with fresh flavors from dill, lemon, and smoked salmon.
Naturally gluten-free and low-carb.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Smoked Salmon Mousse

150 g (5 oz) smoked salmon
150 g (5 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/3 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped (or substitute chives)
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cucumber

3 long cucumbers (English/Telegraph) or 6 standard cucumbers

Garnish

Fresh dill sprigs
Lemon slices (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the mousse
- Add smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
- Blitz until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Transfer the mousse into a piping bag fitted with a wide star nozzle (1.5–2 cm).
- Refrigerate for 5 hours to firm up.
Prepare the cucumbers
- Slice cucumbers into 1.5 cm (0.6 in) thick rounds.
- Use a melon baller or small teaspoon to scoop a shallow well in the center of each slice.
Assemble the canapés
- Pipe the chilled mousse into each cucumber cup.
- Garnish with dill sprigs and serve with lemon slices on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30–36 canapés.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 5 hours
Assembly time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 5 hours 35 minutes

Variations

Substitute dill with chives or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Add a teaspoon of horseradish for a spicy kick.
Use whipped ricotta instead of cream cheese for a lighter mousse.
Top with capers or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flair.
Serve mousse in pastry shells or on crackers instead of cucumber for variety.

Storage/Reheating

The mousse can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge in a sealed container or piping bag.
Assemble canapés just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
Avoid freezing, as the mousse will lose its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make the mousse without a food processor?

Yes, you can finely chop the salmon and mix by hand, but the texture will be less smooth.

Can I use hot-smoked salmon instead?

Yes, hot-smoked salmon will give a richer, more robust flavor.

How do I keep cucumbers from getting watery?

Pat them dry with paper towels after scooping to reduce excess moisture.

Can I prepare the cucumbers ahead of time?

Yes, slice and scoop them a few hours in advance and refrigerate covered until ready to fill.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat gives the mousse a richer, creamier texture.

What can I use instead of cucumbers?

Pastry shells, blinis, or crackers also work well as a base.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free.

How long does the mousse need to chill?

At least 5 hours for best texture, but overnight works even better.

Can I make mini versions for bite-sized appetizers?

Yes, simply cut smaller cucumber slices and use a smaller piping tip.

Can I freeze the mousse?

No, freezing will affect the texture, so it’s best made fresh.

Conclusion

Cucumber Canapés with Smoked Salmon Mousse are the perfect bite-sized appetizer—fresh, creamy, and elegant. With their beautiful presentation and bold flavors, they make an excellent choice for parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings. Prepare the mousse in advance, assemble before serving, and impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

Maggie

Cucumber Canapés with Smoked Salmon Mousse

Why You’ll Love This Recipe