Tzatziki Avocado Salmon Rolls Recipe
Introduction
These Tzatziki Avocado Salmon Rolls are a fresh and elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering. Combining cool cucumber, creamy avocado, and smoky salmon with a tangy tzatziki spread, they offer delightful flavors in every bite.

Ingredients
- 1 English cucumber
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki
- 2 tablespoons minced chives (divided, plus extra whole chives to garnish)
- Juice from ¼ lime
- ½ ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
- 5 oz (150 grams) cold smoked salmon (lox)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (mix of white and black preferred)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice 12 rounds from the cucumber to serve as the base for the salmon rolls. Then, cut the remaining cucumber into 8 thin strips, carefully removing the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of tzatziki with 1 teaspoon of minced chives and the juice of ¼ lime. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly.
- Step 3: Lay out a 16-inch piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Arrange the smoked salmon pieces on top, overlapping to form a rectangle approximately 12 inches by 7 inches. Gently pat the salmon so the pieces stick together.
- Step 4: Spread the prepared tzatziki mixture evenly over the salmon. Lay avocado slices down the center, then add the cucumber strips on top. Sprinkle the remaining minced chives evenly over the layers.
- Step 5: Using the plastic wrap to assist, roll the salmon tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Step 6: Transfer the salmon roll to the refrigerator and chill for 15 to 30 minutes. This helps the roll firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Step 7: Remove the chilled roll from the refrigerator and unwrap carefully. Slice into 12 even pieces. Place each salmon roll slice onto a cucumber round and garnish each with two whole chives before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to achieve clean, even slices without crushing the roll.
- Substitute plain Greek yogurt for tzatziki if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of dill or mint along with chives for an herbal twist.
- Mix black and white sesame seeds for a visually appealing garnish.
Storage
Store the assembled salmon roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. When ready to serve, slice again if needed. Leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day. Avoid freezing as it may damage the texture of the salmon and avocado.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?
This recipe specifically calls for cold smoked salmon for its smoky flavor and texture. Using fresh salmon is not recommended unless you cure or cook it first, which would change the dish significantly.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Tzatziki traditionally contains yogurt, but you can substitute with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or a mixture of mashed avocado and lemon juice for a similar creamy effect without dairy.
PrintTzatziki Avocado Salmon Rolls Recipe
This Tzatziki Avocado Salmon Rolls recipe offers a fresh and elegant appetizer combining creamy avocado, smoky salmon, crisp cucumber, and tangy tzatziki. Perfect for entertaining, these colorful rolls are easy to assemble and beautifully presented on cucumber rounds with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh chives, delivering vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 English cucumber
- 2 tablespoons minced chives (divided, plus extra whole chives to garnish)
- Juice from ¼ lime
- ½ ripe avocado (peeled and sliced)
Dairy & Condiments
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki (see notes)
Proteins
- 5 oz (150 grams) cold smoked salmon (lox)
Other
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (mix of white and black preferred)
Instructions
- Cut cucumber: Slice 12 rounds from the English cucumber to serve as the base for the salmon rolls. Then cut the remaining cucumber into 8 thin strips, carefully removing the seeds to prevent excess moisture.
- Mix tzatziki: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of tzatziki, 1 teaspoon of minced chives, and the juice of ¼ lime. Stir well to evenly blend these flavors.
- Start assembling: Lay a 16-inch piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Arrange the smoked salmon pieces on top, overlapping to form a rectangle approximately 12 inches by 7 inches. Gently pat the salmon pieces to help them stick together.
- Layer fillings: Spread the prepared tzatziki mixture evenly over the laid salmon. Place the avocado slices down the center, followed by the cucumber strips on top. Sprinkle the remaining minced chives evenly over these layers.
- Roll and garnish: Using the plastic wrap as a guide, roll the salmon tightly into a log shape. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the top of the roll for added texture and flavor.
- Cool in fridge: Transfer the salmon roll to the refrigerator and chill for 15 to 30 minutes to firm up, which makes slicing easier.
- Slice and serve: Remove the chilled roll from the fridge and unwrap carefully. Cut into 12 even pieces. Place each salmon roll slice onto a cucumber round and garnish with two whole chives before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, cold smoked salmon for best flavor and texture.
- Tzatziki can be homemade or store-bought; opt for one with a creamy texture and fresh flavors.
- Removing cucumber seeds helps prevent sogginess in the rolls.
- The chilling step is essential to ensure the roll holds together when sliced.
- For a nut-free option, make sure the sesame seeds are safe for those with allergies.
Keywords: tzatziki salmon rolls, avocado salmon appetizer, smoked salmon recipe, Mediterranean appetizer, no-cook salmon rolls, healthy party snacks

