If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying keto snack or light lunch, these Cream Cheese Roll Ups with Smoked Salmon & Chives are a game-changer. They’re irresistibly creamy, packed with flavour, and take just minutes to prepare—perfect for busy days or elegant entertaining.
Each roll up features a soft, tangy cream cheese filling, delicately wrapped in slices of smoked salmon. Fresh chives add a gentle onion note, while a squeeze of lemon brightens every bite. With no cooking required, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to keep carbs low without sacrificing taste or convenience.
Simply blend the cream cheese with lemon and chives, spread onto the salmon, roll tightly, and chill for a few minutes. Slice and serve for a protein-rich, healthy fat snack that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle.
At a glance
- Time: 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 13 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 200 kcal
Ingredients
- 100g Cream cheese (Full-fat, softened)
- 100g Smoked salmon slices (Thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives (Finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)
- To taste Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Equipment Needed
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Cling film
Steps
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Lay out the smoked salmon slices flat on a chopping board, slightly overlapping if needed to form a rectangle.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1cm border along one edge.
- Starting from the opposite edge, gently roll up the salmon into a tight log, keeping the filling inside.
- Wrap the roll tightly in cling film and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Unwrap and slice the roll into 2cm thick rounds using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the roll ups on a serving plate and garnish with extra chives if desired. Serve immediately.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy, fish
Potential swaps:
- Cream cheese → Lactose-free cream cheese — For dairy-free, use a coconut-based cream cheese alternative.
- Smoked salmon → Cooked chicken or turkey slices — For non-fish eaters, use thinly sliced cooked poultry.
Serving Ideas
- With cucumber ribbons – adds crunch and freshness.
- On a bed of rocket leaves – for a peppery, low-carb salad.
- With pickled radishes – for a tangy contrast.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a very sharp knife to slice the roll ups cleanly.
- Pat the smoked salmon dry with kitchen paper to prevent excess moisture.
Variations
- Add a pinch of dill or horseradish to the cream cheese for extra flavour.
- Swap chives for finely chopped spring onions or parsley.
- Top each roll up with a caper for a briny kick.
Troubleshooting
- If the roll ups are too soft to slice, chill longer until firm.
- If the filling squeezes out, use less cream cheese or roll more tightly.
Storage & Reheating
Store roll ups tightly wrapped in cling film in the fridge.
- Fridge: up to 2 days
- Freezer: up to 0 months
- Reheat: Not suitable for reheating; serve chilled.
Ingredient Spotlight
Smoked salmon: Rich in protein and omega-3s, smoked salmon adds savoury depth and healthy fats.
Cream cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy base that pairs perfectly with savoury fillings.
FAQs
Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Store tightly wrapped in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of smoked salmon?
Thinly sliced cooked chicken, turkey, or even roast beef work well as alternatives.
Are these roll ups suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making them perfect for grab-and-go snacks.
Can I freeze cream cheese roll ups?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of cream cheese and smoked salmon may change after thawing.
How do I prevent the roll ups from unravelling?
Chilling the roll tightly wrapped in cling film helps it hold its shape when sliced.
Cream Cheese Roll Ups with Smoked Salmon & Chives
Ingredients
- 100g Cream cheese (Full-fat, softened)
- 100g Smoked salmon slices (Thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives (Finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)
- To taste Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Lay out the smoked salmon slices flat on a chopping board, slightly overlapping if needed to form a rectangle.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1cm border along one edge.
- Starting from the opposite edge, gently roll up the salmon into a tight log, keeping the filling inside.
- Wrap the roll tightly in cling film and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Unwrap and slice the roll into 2cm thick rounds using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the roll ups on a serving plate and garnish with extra chives if desired. Serve immediately.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy, fish
- Cream cheese → Lactose-free cream cheese — For dairy-free, use a coconut-based cream cheese alternative.
- Smoked salmon → Cooked chicken or turkey slices — For non-fish eaters, use thinly sliced cooked poultry.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 13 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 200 kcal
