Save to Pinterest I stumbled onto cucumber roll-ups at a friend's kitchen counter on a lazy Sunday afternoon when she was frantically prepping for a impromptu brunch. She'd grabbed a mandoline, some cream cheese, and whatever deli meat was left in her fridge, and within minutes had these elegant little spirals arranged on a board. The crunch when I bit into one was so satisfying, and the bright herby filling caught me completely off guard for something so simple. Now I make them whenever I need something that feels fancy but requires zero cooking skills.
The best version I made happened when my sister brought her kids over and we were all hungry but nobody wanted a heavy meal. I set up a little assembly line right there on my kitchen island, and the kids actually got excited about helping layer and roll. Even my nephew, who usually picks at everything, asked for seconds. That's when I realized these aren't just a snack—they're a way to make people feel cared for without any fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber: The length and slight thickness make slicing easier, and English varieties have thinner skins and fewer seeds than regular ones.
- 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened: Room temperature cream cheese spreads like butter and won't tear your delicate cucumber strips.
- 120 g (4 oz) sliced turkey breast or ham: Quality deli meat makes the difference here—ask your butcher for freshly sliced if you can, and avoid the pre-packaged stuff when possible.
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped: Chives give you that mild onion bite without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped: Dill and cucumber are basically best friends, so don't skip this.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Just enough to add depth without making your breath questionable after eating.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Taste as you season—cream cheese is salty, so you might need less than you think.
- 1 small red bell pepper, julienned (optional): The brightness adds visual interest and a subtle sweetness that plays nicely with the savory elements.
- 1 small avocado, sliced (optional): Creamy richness that makes these feel more indulgent if you're in the mood.
- 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (optional): If you're using this, sprinkle it just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into ribbons:
- Wash and trim your cucumber, then use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to create long, thin lengthwise strips. This is where a good tool matters—a dull peeler will crush instead of slice. Pat the strips completely dry with paper towels so your cream cheese actually sticks instead of sliding around.
- Make your seasoned spread:
- Combine softened cream cheese with chopped chives, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. The texture should be smooth enough to spread easily but still hold its shape.
- Assemble your base layers:
- Lay cucumber strips flat on a clean surface and spread a thin layer of seasoned cream cheese along each one. Less is more here—you want enough to taste it but not so much that it squishes out when you roll.
- Add your fillings:
- Place a slice of deli meat on top of the cream cheese, then add bell pepper strips or avocado slices if you're using them. Think of this like building a sandwich in spiral form.
- Roll with intention:
- Starting from one end, gently and tightly roll the cucumber strip into a spiral, keeping the filling tucked in as you go. Place each finished roll seam-side down on your serving platter so it stays secure.
- Finish and serve:
- If you're using everything bagel seasoning, sprinkle it on just before serving. These can be eaten right away while they're cool and crisp, or chilled for 15 minutes if you prefer them even firmer.
Save to Pinterest I'll never forget when my coworker brought these to a potluck and everyone kept asking what restaurant she'd ordered from. She smiled and just said she'd made them that morning, and I watched people's faces shift when they realized how simple they actually were. That moment taught me that impressive food doesn't have to be complicated.
Building the Perfect Roll
The architecture of your roll matters more than you'd think. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cram in too much filling and everything unraveled on the platter. The sweet spot is a thin layer of cream cheese, one piece of deli meat, and just a few strips of your optional vegetables. Think delicate, not overstuffed. The roll should feel secure in your hand, and when you bite into it, each layer should be distinct, not compressed into mush.
Making Them Ahead
These are genuinely one of the best last-minute appetizers because they truly take 15 minutes, but they also hold up well if you need to make them a few hours ahead. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge—the cold actually makes them taste fresher and crunchier. I've brought them to picnics, packed them for work lunches, and even made a big batch for my book club. They travel better than you'd expect and always disappear first.
Customizing Your Roll-Ups
The beauty of this recipe is how much room there is to play. I've made versions with smoked salmon and fresh dill that felt restaurant-quality, and others with roast beef and horseradish cream that had my dad asking for the recipe. Once I even made a hummus-based version for a vegan friend, and honestly, it was just as good. The cucumber-and-herbs foundation is strong enough to support whatever flavors you want to layer on top.
- Try mixing a small amount of whole grain mustard or sriracha into your cream cheese spread for an unexpected kick.
- Roast beef with a dab of horseradish and fresh tarragon creates a completely different vibe than turkey and dill.
- For a sweeter angle, smoked salmon with a touch of lemon zest and fresh dill makes these feel elegant enough for a fancy brunch.
Save to Pinterest There's something deeply satisfying about serving food that's this simple, this fresh, and this genuinely good. Your guests will taste the care you took, even though you barely spent any time in the kitchen.
Questions & Answers About This Recipe
- → How do I slice cucumbers thinly for roll-ups?
Use a mandoline slicer or vegetable peeler to cut long, thin strips ideal for rolling.
- → Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, try hummus or a vegan spread for a dairy-free option with similar creaminess.
- → What deli meats work best in these roll-ups?
Turkey breast, ham, smoked salmon, or roast beef add great flavor and variety.
- → Are these roll-ups suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, they are low in carbs and high in protein and fat, fitting keto guidelines well.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Place roll-ups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the roll-ups?
Absolutely! Julienned bell peppers, avocado slices, or herbs complement the flavors nicely.