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Salmon and Cucumber Boats

These refreshing smoked salmon and cucumber boats are an elegant choice for a light lunch or a sophisticated high-protein snack. By pairing the rich, savoury notes of smoked salmon with bright orange segments and fresh basil, this dish offers a vibrant flavour profile that feels both indulgent and remarkably healthy. The crisp cucumber provides a satisfying crunch, making it a wonderful alternative to traditional sandwiches during the warmer months.

Ideal for those seeking a nutritious, low-carb option, this recipe is incredibly simple to assemble and requires no cooking. The combination of heart-healthy fats from the fish and the cooling creaminess of soured cream makes it a balanced choice for post-workout fuel or an impressive starter for a dinner party. Serve with dark pumpernickel bread to complement the smoky flavours.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Salmon and Cucumber Boats

  • 1 large orange

  • 170g smoked salmon, cut into 1/2-inch squares

  • 1 large tomato (about 110g ), diced

  • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

  • 8 kirby (or Persian) cucumbers, peeled, halved lengthwise and seeded

  • 300ml reduced-fat soured cream

  • 4 slices pumpernickel (or whole-wheat pitas)

Zest orange over a bowl. Cut away rind. Section orange over bowl, removing membranes and catching juices and sections in bowl. Mix in salmon, tomato, onions, basil, oil, pepper and salt. Divide salmon mixture evenly among cucumber boats. Top each boat with 1 1/2 teaspoons soured cream. Serve with bread.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 29 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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