Nutmeg Free Paleo Smoky Paprika Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rounds
These elegant little bites are everything you want in a crowd-pleasing appetizer — cool, creamy, smoky, and just a little bit spicy. Crisp cucumber rounds act as the base, topped with a smashed avocado spread that gets its depth from smoked paprika and a kick of cayenne rather than any warm spice blends that might sneak in unwanted ingredients. That makes this a genuinely safe and satisfying choice for anyone avoiding nutmeg, since every single component is clean, whole, and straightforward. The smoked salmon brings a silky, savory richness that pairs beautifully with the bright lemon in the avocado, while fresh dill and briny capers finish each round with a pop of flavor. Assembly is quick and requires no cooking, so you can have a stunning platter ready in minutes. These are naturally paleo-friendly too, leaning entirely on real, recognizable ingredients without any fillers or processed shortcuts. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself to something a little fancy on a weeknight, this is the kind of recipe that looks far more impressive than the effort it actually takes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the cucumber rounds
- 1 large english cucumber
For the avocado spread
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For topping
- 4 oz smoked salmon, torn into small pieces
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp capers, drained
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Slice the cucumber into rounds about 1/4-inch thick, discarding the ends. Arrange the rounds in a single layer on a large serving platter or cutting board.
- 2
Scoop the avocado flesh into a small mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mash with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small chunks remaining — the texture should be thick and spreadable, not runny.
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