Smoked Salmon & Herbed Ricotta Cucumber Bites | PALEO, Whole30, Keto

These fresh little bites are as tasty as they are pretty.  They are perfect for your own light brunch or lunch at home, but are even better as a fancy-looking appetizer to bring to any gathering!

I love how they look (and even taste) fancy, but are so seriously simple to make.

Slice up a cucumber - you could even do mini cucumbers if you want something more one-bite-sized instead of 2 to 3 bites.  Top with your ricotta mixture & some smoked salmon, and you're set.

I buy a dairy free almond milk ricotta from the brand Kite Hill, which I've purchased at Sprouts and Whole Foods - but check their website and store locator, as I know I've seen their brand at Safeway as well, and even Target.

It doesn't have to be a specific brand of ricotta, just look for the fewest ingredients and one made from nuts if you're going dairy free.

Want to make your own "cheese"?  Try my Dairy Free Cheese Ball recipe which uses just a few ingredients, and herbs/spices of your choosing to make a "cashew cheese".  It's the best!

If you're not worried about making these dairy free, you could also go the cream cheese route - that would be just as delicious and even more creamy!

Give these a try the next time you're looking for an easy, low carb way to use up your smoked salmon;  or the next time you're called on to bring a savory appetizer and want to do something other than chips & dip!

Hope you enjoy!

Makes 24 appetizer bites.
Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup dairy free ricotta cheese* (I like Kite Hill almond ricotta)
• 1 Tbsp coconut or almond milk
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 tsp dried chives
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• salt & black pepper, to taste
• 4 to 5 oz chilled smoked salmon*

Directions:

1. Slice the cucumber into 1/4" or less thick rounds, and arrange on a serving tray.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, milk, herbs, garlic, onion, and salt & pepper until smooth.  Spread a spoonful on the top of each cucumber slice.
3. Top with a piece of smoked salmon and a small piece of fresh dill to garnish.  Serve chilled, and enjoy!

*Notes:

• For the ricotta, look for a dairy free option (unless you tolerate dairy of course, or aren't making these on a Whole30!) with the fewest ingredients.  Kite Hill makes a great one that's Whole30 compliant.  Read more about nut cheeses on the Whole30 HERE.
• For the smoked salmon, check for added sugar.  We find a great wild caught one at Trader Joe's and Whole Foods that's sugar free.  Check the deli section/refrigerated meats case at any store.