In the heat of summer, when the thought of a hearty meal feels overwhelming, a refreshing and nourishing salad can be the perfect solution. Enter the Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad – a delightful blend of rich, smoky salmon and crunchy, refreshing cucumbers that will transport your taste buds to a coastal oasis.
This recipe has gained a cult following among health-conscious foodies and busy home cooks alike, and it’s easy to see why. With its vibrant flavors, satisfying texture, and impressive nutritional profile, it’s no wonder this salad has become a summertime staple.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
The combination of smoky, savory salmon and crisp, cool cucumbers creates a symphony of contrasting flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. The accessibility of the ingredients and the make-ahead versatility of this salad make it a go-to choice for everything from casual weeknight dinners to impressive summer gatherings.
Beyond its delicious appeal, this Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad is also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and a bevy of essential vitamins and minerals from the cucumbers, this salad is a nutrient-dense option that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad ❓
• 2 large cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of rich, salty smoked salmon and crisp, hydrating cucumbers creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made seafood salad recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salmon and cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
• Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to chill.
• Step 5: Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Chilling time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional seafood salads which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors and a refreshing, summery twist.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 551mg
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salads provide approximately 25% of your daily omega-3 fatty acid requirements and 15% of your daily vitamin C needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Swap the cucumbers for zucchini or radish slices to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like unsweetened coconut or almond milk yogurt.
• Added protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or edamame for an extra boost of protein.
• Boost vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or sliced avocado for additional vitamins and fiber.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a light, refreshing white wine or a chilled glass of rosé.
• Complement the salad with a simple green salad or a bowl of chilled gazpacho for a complete meal.
• For a light lunch, serve the Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad on a bed of mixed greens or over a bed of quinoa.
• Create an elegant appetizer platter with the salad, sliced cucumbers, and crackers or crostini.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using too much dressing: The salad should be lightly coated, not drowned in the yogurt-based dressing. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid a soggy texture.
• Letting the salad sit too long: The cucumbers can release excess moisture if the salad sits for more than an hour. Serve the salad soon after chilling to maintain the perfect crunch.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salads retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing: Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of the cucumbers. For best results, enjoy the salad fresh.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared up to 1 day in advance. Simply store the dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will meld and the cucumbers will maintain their crisp texture.
Can I substitute the smoked salmon with another type of fish?
Yes, you can use other types of cured or smoked fish, such as trout or mackerel, in place of the smoked salmon. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the type of fish you use.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
With a few simple modifications, this Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad can be easily adapted for a low-carb or keto diet. Swap the cucumbers for zucchini or radish slices, and use a full-fat Greek yogurt or a creamy, dairy-free dressing alternative to keep the carb count low.
What can I do if the salad seems watery?
If the salad appears too watery, it’s likely due to the high water content in the cucumbers. To remedy this, try patting the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before adding them to the salad. You can also try adding a bit more Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard to the dressing to help bind the ingredients together.
Can I add any extra ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad is highly versatile and can be easily customized. Try adding diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to elevate the flavors and textures.
Conclusion
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salads represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a light and refreshing lunch or a show-stopping appetizer at your next summer gathering, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors and perfectly balanced flavors.
The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these seafood salads demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly.
Print
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
• 8 oz. smoked salmon, flaked
• 2 large cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
• Step 1: In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked smoked salmon, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion.
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salmon and cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
• Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to chill.
• Step 5: Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad
