Cucumber Rounds with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Smoked salmon delivers high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids that help suppress hunger and support muscle maintenance in a compact, calorie-efficient snack. The cream cheese adds satiating fat with almost no carbohydrates. Combined with the crunch and hydration of cucumber — one of the lowest-carb vegetables available — this snack fits neatly into any eating window without spiking insulin or pushing you toward an early second meal.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber (about 30 slices)
• 120 g (4 oz) smoked salmon, sliced
• 120 g (4 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon fresh dill (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Wash the cucumber and slice into rounds approximately 1 cm (⅜ inch) thick. Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese with lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth and slightly fluffy.
3. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber round.
4. Tear or fold the smoked salmon into small pieces and place on top of the cream cheese.
5. Top each round with one or two capers. Add a final twist of black pepper.
6. Arrange on a plate and serve immediately, or refrigerate (covered) for up to 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Per Serving

Fasting Compatibility

This snack fits any intermittent fasting protocol — 16:8, 18:6, OMAD, or 5:2. It's ideal as the first food after breaking a fast because it's light, protein-forward, and easy on the digestive system. The combination of protein and fat satisfies without overwhelming a gut that hasn't processed food for 16+ hours.

Related Recipes

• Smoked salmon and cream cheese stuffed cucumber boats
• Tuna stuffed avocado halves
• Hard-boiled eggs with sea salt and paprika

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially if you have an existing health condition.