📖 Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber: Wash and thoroughly dry one large cucumber. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure the slices are uniform in thickness for a consistent look and even stacking.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Gently unwrap 4 ounces of high-quality smoked salmon. Inspect for any bones, removing them if present. Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch squares. If the salmon is too thin, you can fold it over to create a more substantial bite.
3. Prepare the Dill: Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill. Dill adds a wonderful aromatic note that complements the salmon and cucumber. Set aside.
4. Zest the Lemon: Zest one lemon using a microplane or fine grater. Be careful to only zest the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. You'll need about 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
5. Assemble the Skewers: Take a small wooden or bamboo skewer. Thread one cucumber round onto the skewer, followed by a piece of smoked salmon. Repeat this process, alternating cucumber and salmon, until the skewer is nearly full. Aim for about 3-4 pieces of each per skewer. Ensure that the salmon is securely threaded to prevent it from falling off.
6. Garnish: Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped dill and lemon zest evenly over the skewers. This adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
7. Drizzle (Optional): For an extra touch of flavor, lightly drizzle the skewers with a high-quality olive oil or a lemon vinaigrette. This enhances the richness of the salmon and adds a touch of acidity. I like to add a little Sriracha for a bit of a kick, what about you?
8. Chill (Optional): If you are preparing the skewers in advance, cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and keeps the cucumber crisp. Remove from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Present the smoked salmon and cucumber skewers on a chilled platter. These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them promptly after assembly. You can accompany them with a side of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream for dipping.
10. Extra step if you want to impress: Make a quick cucumber-dill sauce by blending a small piece of cucumber with a spoon of yogurt, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over the skewers just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. It's a game changer!