Wash the cucumber and radish under running water. Dry with a paper towel. Cut the cucumber lengthwise into thin sticks or make long ribbons using a vegetable peeler. Slice the radish into very thin rounds (easiest with a mandoline or a sharp knife). Finely chop the chives and dill. Grate the zest from half a lemon (only the yellow part) and squeeze out 1-2 teaspoons of juice.
Description
Delicate rolls of smoked salmon filled with creamy dill cheese are a light, spring-summer appetizer perfect for terrace gatherings, picnics, or as an elegant snack before the main course. The combination of the intense, smoky aroma of salmon with the tartness of lemon, the freshness of dill, and the crunchiness of cucumber and radish creates a contrast of textures and flavors. The dish is quick to prepare, visually striking (pink salmon, green herbs, red accents of radish), and pairs wonderfully with dark bread, young steamed potatoes, or a glass of chilled dry wine. The recipe includes step-by-step instructions for beginners on how to blend the cheese, season the filling, and properly roll the rolls to prevent them from falling apart.
Ingredients Used
Ingredients (13)
- Smoked salmon 200 g
- Semi-fat cottage cheese 200 g
- 18% cream 60 ml
- Lemon 0.6 pcs (~50 g)
- Cucumber 0.5 pcs (~150 g)
- Radish 100 g
- Olive oil 15 ml
- 🌿 Spices
- Dill 0.8 bunch (~15 g)
- Chives 0.2 bunch (~15 g)
- Salt 1 g
- Black pepper 2 pinch (~1 g)
- ✨ Optional
- Capers 20 g
- Rye bread 200 g
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Preparation steps
Preparation of ingredients
Dill cheese
In a medium bowl, place the semi-fat curd. Add the 18% cream one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a spoon or spatula until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency (it should be spreadable but not too runny). Add the chopped dill, chives, grated lemon zest, and 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Season gently with salt and freshly ground pepper. Taste and, if needed, add more lemon juice.
Preparing the salmon
Lay the slices of smoked salmon on a cutting board in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap too much. If the slices are very thick, gently cut them lengthwise to create thinner pieces that are easier to roll.
Stuffing
On each slice of salmon (horizontally), spread a thin layer of dill cream cheese — about a teaspoon per slice (spread with the tip of the spoon from the side closer to you towards the top of the slice). In the center, place 1-2 sticks of cucumber and a few slices of radish. If you are using capers, place 1-2 capers on each slice.
Rolling
Grab the slice of salmon by the shorter edge and tightly roll it up, bringing the filling layer to the inside. Place the rolls on a plate with the seam side down so they don't unravel. If the slice is short, you can make a crescent-shaped roll.
Finishing and decoration
Arrange the rolls on a platter. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and a bit of lemon juice. Sprinkle with fresh dill and chives. Place lemon slices or wedges next to them. If you are using rye bread, cut it into thin slices and arrange them alongside.
Serving
Serve the rolls chilled (after 10-15 minutes in the fridge, the flavors will meld). Serve as an appetizer at parties, with bread, or as a light lunch. Provide knives and forks for serving, or serve the rolls as finger food with toothpicks.
Fun Fact
Smoked salmon was a kind of luxury snack in the kitchens of Northern Europe; adding fresh dill is a traditional way to soften the intense, smoked flavor.
Best for
Tips
Serve the rolls chilled on a light platter with lemon and fresh herbs. For contrast, serve with slices of well-toasted rye bread or thin croutons. You can also serve with a light arugula and cherry tomato salad.
Store the finished rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Do not freeze the finished rolls (the texture of the salmon and cheese will be ruined). If you want to prepare the cheese in advance, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours in a closed container.
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