Easy Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Cucumber Roll Ups: Your Go-To Gluten-Free Summer Appetizer

Welcome to the ultimate solution for effortless, healthy, and incredibly tasty entertaining! These super easy cucumber roll ups, generously filled with luscious cream cheese and delicate smoked salmon, are truly the perfect appetizer and savory snack, especially ideal for those delightful warm summer days. Crafted to be totally gluten-free, we’ve also included a simple dairy-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy these refreshing bites without compromise.

Cucumber Roll Ups: The Ideal Summer Treat

When the sun is blazing and the kitchen feels like a sauna, the last thing you want is to spend hours cooking. This is precisely why these vibrant cucumber roll ups are a game-changer! Much like a watermelon goat cheese salad or a chicken salad sandwich, they offer a cool and refreshing escape from heavier meals. Pair them with a mango milkshake, and you’ve got the ultimate summer meal.

These smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber roll ups are not just amazingly simple to prepare; they also taste fantastic and look surprisingly gourmet. Think of them as elegant, lower-carb cucumber pinwheels, where crisp cucumber slices replace traditional tortillas, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply seeking a light and satisfying meal on a sweltering evening, these cucumber rolls fit the bill perfectly. They’re a versatile choice, serving wonderfully as an impressive appetizer for your next summer party or as a wholesome, light dinner option.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe: Unbeatable Benefits

These smoked salmon cucumber rolls aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly practical and cater to a variety of needs. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You only need five simple, easily accessible ingredients from your local grocery store. This makes preparation straightforward and budget-friendly, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t require a long shopping list.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Forget complex cooking techniques! Crafting these cucumber rolls involves just a few straightforward steps: simply slice, spread your filling, roll them up, chill to perfection, and then cut. It’s a no-fuss recipe that yields impressive results, perfect for even the busiest days.
• Naturally Gluten-Free with Dairy-Free Options: One of the best aspects of these salmon cucumber roll ups is their inherent suitability for various dietary needs. They are 100% gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious choice for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Furthermore, with the simple swap to a plant-based cream cheese, they can easily be made dairy-free, ensuring even those with lactose intolerances can indulge without a second thought.
• Light, Healthy, and Refreshing: Cucumbers are naturally low in calories and high in water, making these rolls an incredibly light and hydrating option. Paired with lean smoked salmon and a creamy filling, they offer a satisfying snack or appetizer that won’t weigh you down, ideal for health-conscious eaters.
• Impressive Presentation: Despite their simplicity, these rolls look incredibly elegant and sophisticated. Arranged neatly on a platter, they make a stunning visual statement, perfect for entertaining guests or simply brightening up your own mealtime.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Roll Ups

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful cucumber roll ups. Here’s a visual overview of what you’ll need, along with some important notes and potential substitutions to ensure the best results:

(For exact measurements, please scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Ingredient Notes & Smart Substitutions

Understanding each ingredient and its role is key to customizing this recipe to your taste and dietary needs:

• Cucumber: For these rolls, I highly recommend using an English cucumber. Its longer, straighter shape and minimal seeds make it ideal for creating uniform, thin slices that are easy to roll. While other types of cucumbers can be used, English or Persian cucumbers generally yield the best results due to their texture and flexibility.
• Cream Cheese: The cream cheese provides that essential creamy texture and acts as the binder for all the flavors. It’s crucial to make sure your cream cheese is softened beforehand, either by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or gently warming it, so it spreads easily without tearing the delicate cucumber slices. If you are dairy-intolerant, a plain dairy-free cream cheese works wonderfully as a substitute, offering a similar tang and creaminess.
• Seasoning: My go-to is everything bagel seasoning, which adds a fantastic blend of savory, nutty, and salty flavors, along with a delightful textural crunch. However, feel free to get creative with your favorite condiments! Great alternatives include onion powder, garlic powder, fresh or dried dill, chives, black pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Smoked Salmon: This ingredient brings a rich, savory depth to the rolls. Choose thinly sliced, good-quality smoked salmon for the best texture and flavor. If smoked salmon isn’t available or preferred, smoked trout is an excellent alternative. For a vegetarian version of these cucumber roll-ups, you can easily substitute the fish with thinly sliced bell peppers (colorful ones like red, yellow, or orange work well), avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a flavorful seasoned tofu cream.
• Fresh Dill: While technically optional, a sprinkle of fresh dill truly elevates the flavor profile, adding a bright, anisy, and aromatic note that complements both the salmon and cream cheese beautifully. It also adds a lovely pop of green for visual appeal.

How to Make Cucumber Roll Ups (Step by Step Guide):

Creating these elegant appetizers is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare and Slice the Cucumber

Begin by washing your English cucumber thoroughly. For the best rolling experience, you’ll need very thin, flexible slices. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent, paper-thin strips, or if you don’t have one, a sharp vegetable peeler can achieve similar results. Aim for slices that are about 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices are key for rolls that look neat and hold together well.

2. Pat Cucumber Slices Dry

Cucumbers have a high water content, which can make your rolls soggy and prevent the cream cheese from adhering properly. To avoid this, arrange the thin cucumber slices in a single layer or slightly overlapping on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This critical step ensures a crisp texture and a stable roll.

3. Evenly Spread Cream Cheese

Take your softened cream cheese (or dairy-free alternative) and, using a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer over each cucumber slice. Make sure to go almost to the edges to ensure every part of the roll has that delicious creaminess. An even layer helps maintain the roll’s shape.

4. Sprinkle with Your Favorite Seasoning

Generously sprinkle your chosen seasoning – like the flavorful everything bagel seasoning – over the cream cheese layer. Don’t be shy; this is where a lot of the flavor comes from! Ensure an even distribution for consistent taste in every bite.

5. Layer Smoked Salmon and Fresh Dill

Carefully place a piece of thinly sliced smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese, covering most of the cucumber slice. If using, sprinkle fresh dill leaves evenly over the salmon. The dill adds a fantastic aromatic freshness that perfectly complements the rich salmon and creamy cheese.

6. Gently Roll Them Up

Starting from one end, carefully and tightly roll up each cucumber strip. Take your time to ensure the filling stays inside and the roll is firm. This step requires a gentle touch to prevent tearing the delicate cucumber. The tighter the roll, the better it will hold its shape when sliced.

7. Chill for Flavor Fusion

Once all the rolls are assembled, wrap them snugly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period is essential as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and helps the rolls firm up, making them much easier to slice neatly. For best results and deeper flavor, you can chill them for up to a few hours.

8. Slice into Perfect Bite-Sized Pieces

Before serving, unwrap the chilled cucumber cream cheese rolls. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice them into bite-sized pieces, aiming for about 1-inch segments. You should get approximately 10 pieces from each full roll, depending on the length of your cucumber and the desired serving size.

9. Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange your deliciously easy cucumber roll ups with smoked salmon neatly on a serving platter. Garnish with a little extra fresh dill or a lemon wedge for an extra touch of elegance. Watch as these vibrant and refreshing bites disappear quickly!

Dish by Dish Tips & Tricks: Elevate Your Roll Ups

Here are some invaluable tips and creative variations to make your cucumber roll ups truly exceptional and tailored to any occasion or dietary preference:

• Always Serve Chilled: For the ultimate refreshing experience, these cucumber rolls are best served cold. Remove them from the refrigerator just before serving, especially during hot summer days, to maintain their crispness and fresh flavors.
• Transform into a Vegetarian Delight: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by simply replacing the smoked salmon. Excellent alternatives include thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), crisp julienned carrots, creamy avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a flavorful, seasoned tofu cream cheese spread.
• Seamless Dairy-Free Option: If you’re lactose-intolerant or prefer a plant-based alternative, making this recipe dairy-free is a breeze. Simply use a plain non-dairy cream cheese. Alternatively, you can swap out cream cheese entirely for other creamy spreads like traditional hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, or the smoky and rich baba ganoush (roasted eggplant dip). Just ensure your chosen spread is thick enough to hold its shape.
• Secure with Cocktail Sticks for Easy Serving: To ensure your elegant cucumber appetizers stay perfectly rolled and make serving a breeze at your party, consider poking a toothpick or a decorative cocktail stick through the middle of each roll. This not only keeps them intact but also makes them easy for guests to pick up. For an extra flourish, you can top the stick with a small olive or a cherry tomato.
• Make Ahead Magic: These rolls are fantastic for meal prepping or party planning! You can prepare and roll them up to 24 hours in advance. Store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. For the best texture, slice them into individual pieces just before serving.
• Flavor Boosters and Variations:
  • A Citrusy Hint: A tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the smoked salmon before rolling can brighten all the flavors.
  • Add a Kick: Mix a small amount of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cream cheese for a spicy variation.
  • Herb It Up: Experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or even a hint of fresh mint for a unique twist.
  • Different Fillings: Consider thinly sliced deli turkey, ham, or even a prepared shrimp salad for other protein options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making these cucumber roll ups:

• Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
  A: While you can, English or Persian cucumbers are highly recommended. Their longer length, fewer seeds, and thinner skins make them easier to slice into uniform, flexible strips perfect for rolling. If using regular cucumbers, you might need to peel them and carefully scoop out the seeds, then ensure they are very well patted dry to prevent sogginess.
• Q: How far in advance can I prepare these cucumber roll ups?
  A: These rolls are great for making ahead! You can prepare and roll them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. For the best presentation and texture, slice them into individual serving pieces just before you plan to serve.
• Q: Can I freeze cucumber roll ups?
  A: Freezing is not recommended for cucumber roll ups. Cucumbers have a very high water content, and upon thawing, they will become mushy and lose their crisp, refreshing texture, affecting the overall quality of the appetizer.
• Q: What other proteins can I use if I don’t like smoked salmon?
  A: Beyond smoked salmon, you have several delicious options! Consider thinly sliced smoked turkey, deli ham, or even a homemade chicken salad. For other seafood options, finely chopped cooked crab meat or shrimp can also make excellent fillings.
• Q: What if I don’t own a mandoline slicer?
  A: No problem! A very sharp vegetable peeler can produce excellent thin strips of cucumber. Alternatively, a sharp chef’s knife can be used, but it might take a bit more practice to achieve consistent, very thin slices. The key is to get them as thin and uniform as possible for easy rolling.

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!

Print Recipe

Easy Cucumber Roll Ups (Gluten-Free)

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3 from 2 reviews

• 
  Author: Felicia Lim
• 
  
  Total Time: 45 minutes
• 
  
  Yield: 5 servings
• 
  
  Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These super easy cucumber roll ups are a refreshing, no-cook appetizer perfect for warm weather. Filled with creamy softened cream cheese and savory smoked salmon, they are a delicious and healthy bite-sized snack. Naturally gluten-free and offering a simple dairy-free option, they’re ideal for any gathering or a light meal. Impress your guests with these elegant yet simple rolls that come together in minutes!

---

Ingredients

Units

Scale

• 1 large English cucumber (approximately 10-12 inches long, for thin, flexible slices)
• 4 ounces plain cream cheese, softened at room temperature (or dairy-free cream cheese)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional, for garnish and flavor)
• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (or your preferred blend of garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper)
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced (or smoked trout, or vegetarian alternative like bell peppers)

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Slice Cucumber: Wash the English cucumber and slice it lengthwise into very thin strips (about 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline slicer or a sharp vegetable peeler. Aim for uniform slices that are flexible for rolling.
2. Pat Cucumber Slices Dry: Lay the cucumber slices on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Gently pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing soggy rolls and ensuring the cream cheese adheres well.
3. Spread Cream Cheese: Evenly spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese (or dairy-free alternative) over each cucumber slice, extending almost to the edges.
4. Sprinkle Seasoning: Generously sprinkle your chosen seasoning, such as everything bagel seasoning, over the cream cheese layer on each slice.
5. Layer Smoked Salmon: Carefully place a piece of thinly sliced smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese layer. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped dill.
6. Roll: Starting from one end, carefully and tightly roll up each cucumber strip. Ensure the filling stays intact and the roll is firm.
7. Chill: Once all rolls are assembled, wrap them snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the rolls to firm up, making them easier to slice. For best results, chill for 1-2 hours.
8. Slice into Pieces: Before serving, unwrap the chilled cucumber rolls and use a sharp knife to slice them into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch thick. You should get approximately 10 pieces per roll.
9. Serve and Enjoy! Arrange the sliced cucumber roll ups beautifully on a serving platter. Garnish with a little extra fresh dill if desired, and enjoy these deliciously easy and refreshing appetizers!

Notes

Cucumber: An English cucumber is highly recommended for its long, straight shape, minimal seeds, and firm yet flexible texture, which is ideal for thin slices and easy rolling. Other cucumber types may require peeling and de-seeding.

Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for effortless spreading without tearing the cucumber. For a dairy-free option, use a plain dairy-free cream cheese or explore alternatives like thick hummus or baba ganoush.

Seasoning: Everything bagel seasoning adds a fantastic blend of flavors and texture. Feel free to substitute or combine with other seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, fresh chives, or a dash of black pepper.

Smoked Salmon: High-quality, thinly sliced smoked salmon is preferred. If unavailable, smoked trout is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, swap the fish for thin slices of bell peppers (various colors look great!), avocado, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Make Ahead: These rolls can be prepared, rolled, and stored tightly wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Slice just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

Serving Tip: For parties, use toothpicks or decorative cocktail sticks to secure the rolls and make them easy to pick up, preventing them from unravelling.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Chilling Time: 30 mins
• Category: Appetizers