Xanthan Gum 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 serious depth from smoked paprika and a kick of cayenne. Torn pieces of smoked salmon, fresh dill, and briny capers finish each one off with layers of flavor that feel far more impressive than the effort involved. For anyone navigating thickener-heavy processed foods, this recipe is a breath of fresh air — every single ingredient is whole and naturally free of gums or stabilizers. The avocado spread comes together with a fork, no blender or specialty products required, and it holds its texture beautifully without any additives. That rich, spreadable consistency is all avocado doing what avocado does best. These rounds are ideal for entertaining because they come together quickly and look stunning on a platter. Serve them straight away for the crispest bite, or pop them in the fridge for up to 30 minutes if you need a little head start on party prep.
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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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