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Smoked Salmon Appetizer Recipes

Smoked Salmon Appetizer Recipes
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These Smoked Salmon Appetizer Recipes combine the rich, silky flavor of high-quality smoked salmon with fresh, vibrant ingredients for elegant yet easy-to-make bite-sized appetizers. Perfect for casual brunches, upscale gatherings, or holiday celebrations, they provide effortless elegance, flavor-packed bites, and versatile, customizable options that impress without the fuss.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • High-quality thinly sliced smoked salmon (quantity as needed for serving)
  • Cream cheese or crème fraîche (about 8 oz for 12-16 servings)
  • Fresh dill, finely chopped (2 tablespoons)
  • Lemon juice or zest (1 lemon)
  • Capers (2 tablespoons)
  • Crisp crackers or baguette slices (about 24 pieces)

Optional Ingredients

  • Avocado, sliced or mashed (1 medium)
  • Cucumber slices, hollowed for mini boats (1 medium cucumber)
  • Finely chopped red onion (2 tablespoons)
  • Sriracha or jalapeño, finely chopped (to taste)
  • Herb alternatives: chives, tarragon, or basil (2 tablespoons finely chopped)
  • Thin apple or pear slices (for garnish)
  • Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds (2 tablespoons)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Tiny edible flowers (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Spread a thin, even layer of cream cheese or crème fraîche on your chosen base, whether it’s a crisp cracker, cucumber slice, or toasted baguette slice. This creamy layer adds flavor and helps hold the toppings together.
  2. Add fresh herbs and accents: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh dill or your herb of choice along with a few capers evenly atop the creamy layer. Add a light squeeze of lemon juice or a small amount of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
  3. Layer the smoked salmon: Place delicate but generous thin slices or strips of smoked salmon over the herb-accented base, ensuring the star ingredient is showcased in each bite.
  4. Garnish and finish: Top your appetizers with optional extras such as thinly sliced red onion, avocado, a dash of black pepper, chopped toasted nuts, or tiny edible flowers to add texture, contrast, and elegance. Serve immediately to preserve crispness and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose the freshest and highest-grade smoked salmon available to maximize flavor.
  • Avoid overloading layers to keep balance and prevent the appetizers from becoming bulky.
  • Chill crackers, cucumber slices, or bases in the refrigerator before assembling to maintain crisp texture.
  • Use fresh herbs like dill or chives for a bright, natural flavor uplift.
  • Prepare cream cheese spreads and chop herbs ahead of time to save assembly time on serving day.
  • Store assembled appetizers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours to keep freshness.
  • Do not freeze fully assembled appetizers; freeze smoked salmon separately if needed.
  • Serve appetizers cold or at room temperature; warm toasted baguette slices separately before assembly if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon, appetizer, hors d'oeuvre, party bites, elegant snacks, gluten-free appetizers, easy appetizers, finger food, smoked salmon bites

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/smoked-salmon-appetizer-recipes/