Cucumber Roll-Ups Low-Carb

I discovered cucumber roll-ups by accident one afternoon when I was cleaning out my fridge and found a perfectly crisp English cucumber next to some cream cheese that needed using. My teenager had been talking about these TikTok snacks everyone was making, and I thought, why not try it myself? Ten minutes later, I was rolling up these light, crunchy spirals and realizing I'd stumbled onto something genuinely addictive—not just trendy, but actually delicious. The best part? No cooking required, which meant I could make them while standing in the kitchen in my regular clothes instead of an apron.

The first time I made these for a small gathering, I was nervous they'd seem too simple, too casual for a party spread. But watching everyone reach for a second and third roll-up while barely breaking conversation convinced me that sometimes the simplest things hit hardest. My friend Sarah asked for the recipe before dessert even came out, which told me everything I needed to know about their staying power.

Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber: The backbone of these roll-ups—English cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds than regular ones, so they slice beautifully without falling apart and stay crisp for hours.
• 120 g cream cheese, softened: This is your adhesive and flavor foundation, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before mixing so it spreads like a dream.
• 120 g sliced turkey breast or ham: Go for quality deli meat here because you'll taste every layer—thin, even slices make rolling easier and the eating experience smoother.
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped: These add a delicate onion note that lifts the whole thing without overpowering the fresh cucumber.
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped: Dill and cucumber are meant to be together, and this small amount whispers rather than shouts.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Just enough to add depth without making your breath questionable for the next hour.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Don't skip seasoning the cream cheese mixture—this is where the real flavor happens.
• Optional: red bell pepper, avocado, everything bagel seasoning: These are your personal touches that make your version feel different from everyone else's.

Instructions

Prep your cucumber canvas:

Wash your cucumber under cool water and trim the ends with a sharp knife. Using a mandoline slicer or vegetable peeler, carefully slice the cucumber lengthwise into long, thin strips—you want them flexible but sturdy enough to hold filling.

Build your seasoned spread:

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with your chopped chives, dill, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and the herbs are evenly distributed throughout.

Layer with intention:

Lay your cucumber strips on a clean work surface and pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps everything stick better. Spread a thin, even layer of the seasoned cream cheese along each strip, leaving a small border at the edges so filling doesn't squeeze out when you roll.

Add your filling:

Place a single slice of deli meat on top of the cream cheese, then arrange your optional vegetables—a few julienned pepper strips or avocado slices work beautifully here. Less is more; you want the roll to hold together, not burst open.

Roll with confidence:

Starting at one end, tightly roll each cucumber strip into a spiral, keeping the seam underneath as you place it on your serving platter. If any seem loose, a tiny dab of cream cheese on the seam will seal it.

Final flourish:

If you're using everything bagel seasoning, sprinkle it lightly over the finished roll-ups. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 15 minutes if you prefer them slightly firmer.

Save

There's something unexpectedly meditative about assembling these roll-ups, and I noticed that when I slow down and pay attention to each layer, they not only look better but taste more intentional. It's the kind of snack that reminds you that food doesn't have to be complicated to feel special.

Why These Work as a Keto Snack

If you're tracking carbs, these are a quiet hero—the cucumber brings crunch and freshness while keeping the carb count minimal, and the cream cheese plus protein from the deli meat keeps you satisfied for hours without the mid-afternoon crash. I started making these regularly when I realized I could have something that felt indulgent but actually supported my eating goals, which removed a lot of the guilt-and-restriction cycle that makes snacking miserable.

Variations That Keep Things Interesting

Once you nail the basic version, you can drift in different directions depending on what's in your kitchen or what you're hungry for. Smoked salmon with capers feels fancy, roast beef with horseradish cream gets earthy and rich, and hummus-based versions work beautifully if dairy isn't your thing. The beauty is that the cucumber stays constant while everything else becomes a canvas for improvisation.

Storage and Serving Tips

These are best eaten within a few hours of assembly, though they'll keep refrigerated for up to a day if you stack them gently between parchment paper. If you're making them for a crowd, you can assemble them an hour ahead and keep them chilled, which also firms them up and makes them less likely to unravel on someone's plate. The texture shift is actually an advantage—they go from snappy-fresh to pleasantly substantial as they chill.

• Keep assembled roll-ups on a cold platter and cover loosely with plastic wrap if you're serving later.
• Don't season with everything bagel seasoning until right before serving, or it'll get soggy from the cucumber moisture.
• If a roll-up loosens up, a tiny dot of cream cheese on the seam will re-seal it without anyone noticing.

Save

These roll-ups have become my go-to when I need something to feel like I put thought into a snack without actually spending time in the kitchen. They're the kind of thing that makes you feel capable and resourceful, which honestly matters as much as how they taste.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cucumber works best for the roll-ups?

Long, thin English cucumbers are ideal as they provide sturdy, crunchy strips that are easy to roll without breaking.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese with other spreads?

Yes, dairy-free options like hummus or vegan spreads make excellent alternatives while maintaining the creamy texture.

→ What deli meats pair well with the cucumber and cheese?

Slices of turkey breast, ham, smoked salmon, or roast beef work well, bringing variety and savory depth to the roll-ups.

→ How can I add extra flavor or crunch to the roll-ups?

Adding julienned red bell pepper, avocado slices, or everything bagel seasoning enhances both texture and taste.

→ Are these roll-ups suitable for keto and gluten-free diets?

Yes, using low-carb ingredients and gluten-free deli meats makes them fitting for keto and gluten-free eating plans.