Smoked Salmon Cucumber & Hummus Roll-Ups

These Smoked Salmon Cucumber & Hummus Roll-Ups are a perfect blend of refinement and ease. Crisp cucumber ribbons cradle a silky layer of hummus and tender, smoky salmon, creating a bite that’s light, visually striking, and bursting with contrasting textures. Simple yet sophisticated, they’re ideal for entertaining on short notice or elevating a weekday lunch with minimal effort.

What makes these roll-ups truly shine is their versatility. Customize your hummus to include roasted garlic or herbs, let fresh dill and lemon juice enhance brightness, or garnish with everything bagel seasoning to add crunch and flavor. Whether presenting them on a party platter, serving as part of brunch, or enjoying as a solo snack, these spirals deliver big on taste and style.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (227 g) thinly sliced cold-smoked salmon (lox-style)

• 1 large (or 2 medium) English cucumber (also known as hothouse or seedless cucumber)

• 1 cup (approx. 240 g) hummus (plain, or roasted garlic/red pepper/lemon-dill for variation)

• 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh dill (optional, but highly recommended)

• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavors)

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)

• 1 Tbsp Everything Bagel seasoning (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Wash cucumber and trim ends. Using a wide vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer (with guard), slice lengthwise into long, thin ribbons (~1/16–1/8 inch thick). Lay on paper towels and pat to remove excess moisture, this prevents sogginess.

2. If using, combine hummus with dill and lemon juice. Otherwise, reserve dill for sprinkling later.

3. For each roll-up, take a cucumber ribbon (overlap two if narrow). Spread a thin layer of hummus along the length, leaving a ¼-inch border on one short end to keep filling contained.

4. Sprinkle dill over hummus if not mixed in. Lay smoked salmon over the hummus.

5. Roll up from one short edge into a tight cylinder, the hummus should help seal it. Secure with a toothpick if transporting.

6. Serve whole or chill 10–15 minutes and slice into bite-size pieces (~1-inch). Garnish with more dill, fresh black pepper, or Everything Bagel seasoning.

Prep Time: 20–25 minutes | Total Time: ~30–40 minutes (including optional chilling)
Kcal: Approximately 150–250 per serving (assuming four servings of 4–6 pieces each)
Servings: 4 appetizer servings (16–24 roll-up pieces)

Smoked Salmon Cucumber & Hummus Roll-Ups – A Fresh, Elegant Bite for Any Occasion

When it comes to appetizers, the secret to success is finding that sweet spot between flavor, presentation, and simplicity. These Smoked Salmon Cucumber & Hummus Roll-Ups deliver exactly that. They are crisp, creamy, savory, and incredibly refreshing, the kind of bite that makes guests pause and ask, “What’s in this? It’s delicious!” Best of all, they require no cooking, minimal prep time, and can be made ahead, making them a host’s best friend.

This dish pairs three power ingredients, smoked salmon, hummus, and cucumber, into an appetizer that feels both luxurious and health-conscious. Smoked salmon offers an indulgent, slightly briny richness; hummus brings nutty creaminess; and cucumber contributes crunch and coolness. Together, they create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to beat.

Why This Recipe Works

There’s a reason these roll-ups appear in everything from cocktail parties to summer brunches. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce makes them not only delicious but also nutrient-packed. Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to heart and brain health. Hummus, made from chickpeas and tahini, provides plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and iron. Cucumber is hydrating, light, and naturally low in calories, making this appetizer satisfying without being heavy.

From a culinary perspective, the key to these roll-ups’ success lies in contrast:

• Flavor contrast – smoky vs. fresh, savory vs. bright.

• Texture contrast – creamy hummus, silky salmon, crisp cucumber.

• Visual contrast – pink-orange salmon against green cucumber ribbons, accented with herbs.

These contrasts create a multi-sensory eating experience that feels gourmet but takes less than half an hour to prepare.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

1. Smoked Salmon
The foundation of this dish is smoked salmon, and quality matters. Look for:

• Cold-smoked salmon (also called lox) for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Evenly sliced pieces without excess oiliness or dryness.

• Wild-caught salmon for deeper flavor and better nutritional value (though sustainably farmed options can be excellent too).

2. Cucumber
English cucumbers (also called seedless or hothouse cucumbers) work best because:

• They have thin, edible skin.

• Fewer seeds mean cleaner slicing.

• Their length makes it easier to create long, even ribbons.

If you use regular cucumbers, peel them partially for aesthetics and remove seeds for less moisture.

3. Hummus
Hummus serves as the “glue” that holds everything together. You can use:

• Classic plain hummus for a neutral base.

• Roasted red pepper hummus for a sweet, smoky twist.

• Lemon-dill hummus for brightness.

• Garlic hummus for added depth.

Homemade hummus gives you full control over texture and seasoning, but a good-quality store-bought option works beautifully when time is short.

4. Herbs & Garnishes
Fresh dill is a natural partner for salmon. You can also experiment with:

• Chives or green onions for a mild onion bite.

• Fresh parsley for herbal freshness.

• Everything Bagel seasoning for a fun, crunchy topping.

• A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance flavors (only if your salmon is not overly salty).

Variations & Customizations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Add Avocado – Spread thin avocado slices over the hummus for added creaminess and healthy fats.

• Switch the Protein – Substitute smoked trout or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

• Make it Spicy – Add a thin layer of spicy hummus or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside the roll.

• Vegetarian Version – Skip the salmon and add roasted bell pepper strips or marinated artichoke hearts.

• Vegan Version – Replace salmon with carrot ribbons marinated in liquid smoke, soy sauce, and maple syrup to mimic the smoky flavor.

Serving & Presentation Tips

These roll-ups are naturally elegant, but with a little effort, you can make them truly Instagram-worthy:

1. Plating – Arrange them in concentric circles on a round platter, or line them neatly in rows for a modern look.

2. Garnishing – Sprinkle dill over the top for a fresh, herbal accent. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil just before serving adds shine.

3. Pairing – Serve alongside lemon wedges for a burst of acidity. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine, crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or herbal iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.

4. Serving Temperature – These are best served chilled. If preparing ahead, keep them covered in the refrigerator until serving to maintain freshness.

Health Benefits in Every Bite

Beyond their taste and style, these roll-ups offer nutritional benefits:

• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Smoked salmon supports heart, brain, and joint health.

• Plant-Based Fiber & Protein – Hummus aids digestion and helps keep you fuller for longer.

• Low-Carb & Gluten-Free – A great choice for those avoiding bread or processed carbs.

• Hydration – Cucumbers are over 90% water, helping keep you hydrated, especially in warmer months.

This makes the roll-ups a smart choice for health-conscious eaters who still want to indulge in something satisfying.

Make-Ahead & Storage

One of the best parts about this recipe is that you can prepare it ahead:

• Make Ahead – Assemble up to 6 hours before serving. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Avoid Sogginess – Pat cucumbers dry before assembly and avoid overfilling with hummus.

• Leftovers – These are best eaten fresh, but they will keep for up to 24 hours refrigerated. Beyond that, cucumber may lose crispness.

When to Serve These Roll-Ups

The versatility of these smoked salmon cucumber & hummus roll-ups means they fit into countless settings:

• Holiday Parties – Light yet festive, perfect between heavier courses.

• Summer Picnics – Cool, refreshing, and easy to transport.

• Brunch Buffets – Pair alongside quiche, fruit salad, and pastries.

• Wedding or Baby Showers – Elegant finger food guests can enjoy without utensils.

• Healthy Snacks – A great way to elevate an afternoon bite at home.

Pro Tips for Perfect Roll-Ups Every Time

1. Use Cold Ingredients – Chilled hummus and salmon make the roll easier to handle.

2. Don’t Overfill – Less is more; too much hummus or salmon can cause the roll to burst.

3. Uniform Thickness – Slice cucumbers evenly so they roll without breaking.

4. Serve Bite-Sized – If making for parties, cut rolls into 1-inch sections so they can be eaten in one bite.

5. Herb Freshness – Always add herbs just before serving to keep them vibrant and flavorful.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Cucumber & Hummus Roll-Ups are more than just a quick snack, they are a culinary trifecta of elegance, health, and flavor. In less than 30 minutes, you can prepare an appetizer that looks like it came from a fine dining menu but is made with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re hosting an intimate brunch, planning a lavish party, or simply craving something fresh and satisfying, these roll-ups are a reliable choice that never fails to impress.

Their adaptability means you can tweak the flavors to fit any season, dietary need, or personal taste preference. The combination of smoky, creamy, and crisp elements ensures that every bite is as exciting as the first. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again — not because they’re easy (though they are), but because they’re irresistibly delicious.