Elegant Smoked Salmon Cucumber Canapés with Zesty Pepper Creme Fraiche
Indulge in these exquisite smoked salmon cucumber canapés, a perfect blend of elegance and healthiness. Each bite offers a refreshing crunch from the cucumber, paired with the rich, smoky flavor of the salmon. The zesty creme fraiche adds a peppery tang that complements the dish beautifully. These canapés are not only a feast for the palate but also visually stunning, making them an ideal addition to any cocktail party, bridal shower, or buffet. With no pastry needed, they are light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. Feel free to make the cucumber cups and creme fraiche ahead of time—just assemble before serving to ensure maximum freshness. Allow your guests to relish these delightful bites, with 2 to 4 canapés per person depending on the menu. Created for health-conscious foodies, these canapés are both guilt-free and utterly delicious.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
medium cucumber
1 (cut into 1.5-inch slices and hollowed out)
creme fraiche
10 tablespoons (mixed with lemon zest and black pepper)
zest of a large lemon
1 (zested)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (about 2 teaspoons) (added to creme fraiche mix)
smoked salmon
225 g (8 oz) (cut into strips and curled)
salt
optional (to taste)
lemon slices
optional (for garnish)
dill or parsley
optional (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Start by cutting the medium cucumber into 1.5-inch thick slices. Using a pointed teaspoon, gently hollow out the center of each slice to create a shallow well, removing any seeds.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the creme fraiche, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more black pepper as desired for your preferred level of spice. Consider the saltiness of the smoked salmon before adding any salt.
3
Using a spoon, distribute about 1 teaspoon of the seasoned creme fraiche into each hollowed cucumber cup.
4
Next, cut the smoked salmon into strips about 6 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Roll each strip into small circular shapes and carefully place them on top of the creme fraiche in each cucumber cup.
5
For an extra touch of finesse, you may garnish with thin slices of lemon or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds flavor.
6
Although the cucumber cups and creme fraiche can be prepared several hours in advance, it's best to assemble the canapés an hour before serving. Cover them with cling film and refrigerate to keep the salmon moist and fresh.
7
Serve these delightful canapés on a stylish platter and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Elegant Smoked Salmon Cucumber Canapés with Zesty Pepper Creme Fraiche.
What are the primary flavors in these canapés?
The dish features a refreshing crunch from cucumber, rich smoky salmon, and a zesty, peppery tang from the creme fraiche.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, these canapés are described as a perfect blend of elegance and healthiness, created specifically for health-conscious foodies.
What occasions are best for serving these canapés?
They are ideal for cocktail parties, bridal showers, or buffet menus.
How many canapés should I serve per person?
It is recommended to serve 2 to 4 canapés per guest, depending on the rest of your menu.
Can I prepare these canapés in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber cups and creme fraiche several hours ahead, but they should be assembled shortly before serving.
What is the best way to cut the cucumber for the base?
The cucumber should be cut into slices that are approximately 1.5 inches thick.
How do I create the well in the cucumber slices?
Use a pointed teaspoon to gently hollow out the center of each slice, removing the seeds to create a shallow well.
What ingredients are in the zesty creme fraiche?
The mixture consists of creme fraiche, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper.
How much black pepper should I add to the creme fraiche?
The recipe suggests about 2 teaspoons, but you should adjust it to taste based on your preferred spice level.
Should I add salt to the creme fraiche mixture?
Salt is optional; you should taste the mixture and consider the saltiness of the smoked salmon before adding any extra salt.
How much filling goes into each cucumber cup?
Each hollowed cucumber cup should receive approximately 1 teaspoon of the seasoned creme fraiche.
How should the smoked salmon be cut?
Cut the smoked salmon into strips that are about 6 inches long and 1/2 inch wide.
How do I place the salmon on the canapés?
Roll each salmon strip into a small circular shape and place it carefully on top of the creme fraiche.
What are the suggested garnishes for this dish?
You can garnish with thin slices of lemon or fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor and finesse.
How far in advance should I assemble the final canapés?
It is best to assemble them about one hour before serving for maximum freshness.
How should I store the canapés if they are already assembled?
Cover them with cling film and refrigerate them to keep the salmon moist and fresh.
Does this recipe require any pastry or bread?
No, this is a pastry-free recipe, making it light and refreshing.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total, including optional garnishes.
What type of lemon is specified for the zest?
The recipe calls for the zest of one large lemon.
Is the cucumber peeled in this recipe?
The instructions do not specify peeling, which helps the cucumber slices maintain their structure as cups.
What is the primary protein source in this appetizer?
The primary protein is smoked salmon, with 225g (8 oz) used in the recipe.
How much creme fraiche is needed?
The recipe requires 10 tablespoons of creme fraiche.
What does the creme fraiche add to the texture?
It adds a creamy, tangier texture that balances the crisp cucumber and oily salmon.
Is this recipe suitable for a buffet?
Yes, their visual appeal and ease of eating make them a great addition to any buffet.
Are these canapés considered easy to prepare?
Yes, they are described as easy to prepare with no baking or complex cooking techniques involved.
What is the main role of the lemon zest?
The lemon zest provides a bright, citrusy acidity to the creme fraiche mixture.
How do you serve the finished product?
The canapés should be served on a stylish platter to enhance their elegant presentation.
What type of salmon is used?
The recipe specifically uses smoked salmon.
Is the recipe gluten-free?
Since it uses cucumber as a base instead of bread or pastry, it is naturally gluten-free.