When it comes to elegant and delicious appetizers, few ingredients can rival the rich flavor and stunning presentation of smoked salmon. This versatile ingredient can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from classic canapés to innovative sushi bites. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering smoked salmon appetizer recipes that are sure to impress your guests.
From creamy dips to crunchy canapés, each recipe features the star of the show: tender and flavorful smoked salmon. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or serving up a quick and easy snack for game day, these elegant appetizers are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and impress your friends with your culinary skills!
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites with Dill Cream
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing and flavorful bites, perfect for a light and elegant gathering. Smoky salmon, cool cucumber, and creamy dill come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 4 large cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 150°F (65°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a plate or platter.
4. Top each cucumber slice with a dollop of the dill cream, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Place a piece of flaked salmon on top of the cream.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (smoking time)
Smoked Salmon and Avocado Tartlets
A delicious and elegant appetizer or snack, these tartlets combine the rich flavors of smoked salmon with creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and chopped dill. Place a small dollop on one half of each square.
4. Top with diced avocado and flaked smoked salmon.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs with Capers
Elevate the humble deviled egg to new heights with the addition of smoky salmon and tangy capers. These bite-sized treats are perfect for your next brunch or party.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 2 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
4. Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, dill, smoked salmon, and capers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
7. Sprinkle with paprika or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Smoked Salmon Blinis with Crème Fraîche
Elevate your brunch game with these elegant smoked salmon blinis, topped with a dollop of tangy crème fraîche and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy morning in.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 blini cakes
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup crème fraîche
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the blinis according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the flaked smoked salmon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Top each toasted blini with a spoonful of the salmon mixture.
4. Dollop a tablespoon or two of crème fraîche on top of the salmon.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Toasting blinis: 2-3 minutes
– Assembling the dish: 5 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
A decadent twist on a classic appetizer or snack, these Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are sure to impress. Rich and creamy, with the subtle smokiness of salmon, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, smoked salmon, lemon juice, and dill until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the salmon-cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Pinwheels with Herbed Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized pinwheels filled with smoked salmon, creamy herbed cheese, and fresh dill. Perfect for parties or gatherings, these easy-to-make treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, and lemon zest until well combined.
2. Stir in flaked smoked salmon and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Lay the tortilla flat on a work surface. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently to form a pinwheel shape. Slice into 8-10 pieces.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required – these pinwheels are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Rolls
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful and visually appealing rolls, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salmon, asparagus, butter, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the mixture along one edge of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from the filling edge.
6. Place the roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a splash of water) and sprinkle with chopped dill if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Salmon Canapés with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant and flavorful canapés featuring smoked salmon, creamy lemon aioli, and crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup lemon aioli (see below for recipe)
– 12-16 baguette slices, toasted
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Lemon Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
3. Spread a small amount of lemon aioli on each toasted slice.
4. Top with flaked smoked salmon, dividing it evenly among the slices.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting baguette slices)
Smoked Salmon and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant combination of smoky salmon, creamy goat cheese, and crispy baguette. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon (flaked)
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange baguette slices on the sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the bread and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Spread goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with flaked smoked salmon.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Smoked Salmon Sushi Bites with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your sushi game with these bite-sized morsels, packed with the rich flavor of smoked salmon and a tangy kick from wasabi mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup wasabi mayonnaise (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger slices
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Wasabi Mayonnaise:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix smoked salmon with a pinch of salt and set aside.
3. Cut cucumber and pickled ginger slices into small pieces.
4. To assemble, place a small amount of sushi rice onto a plate or nori sheet, followed by a piece of smoked salmon, a few cucumber and ginger slices, and a dollop of wasabi mayonnaise.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including rice preparation)
Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Roulades
Elevate your party with these elegant roulades, perfect for a sophisticated gathering or a quick snack. Thinly sliced smoked salmon and refreshing cucumber come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, thinly sliced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of white bread (preferably baguette)
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and chopped dill.
2. Place a slice of smoked salmon on each piece of bread, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Add a few slices of cucumber on top of the salmon.
4. Spread a small amount of cream cheese mixture over the cucumber.
5. Roll up each piece tightly, starting from one end.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is best served fresh.
Smoked Salmon Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chopped dill.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato half with the salmon mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
4. Place stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is lightly set and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Brie Phyllo Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant and flavorful Smoked Salmon and Brie Phyllo Cups. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion, this recipe combines the richness of smoked salmon with the creaminess of brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup crumbled Brie cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal squares.
3. Place a spoonful of melted butter in the center of each square.
4. Top with a piece of smoked salmon, followed by a sprinkle of Brie cheese and dill.
5. Fold the phyllo into a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Potato Skins
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of crispy potato skins filled with smoked salmon, fresh dill, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party starter.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh to make room for filling.
6. In a bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped dill.
7. Stuff each potato skin with the salmon-goat cheese mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (for baking potatoes) + 5 minutes for assembling and serving
Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Pickled Red Onion
Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Pickled Red Onion: A flavorful and elegant appetizer that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the tanginess of pickled red onion, all on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Smoked Salmon
– 4-6 Baguette Slices
– 1/2 cup Pickled Red Onion (see recipe below)
– 2 tbsp Fresh Dill
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp Olive Oil
Pickled Red Onion Recipe:
– 1 large Red Onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
– 1/4 cup Water
– 1 tsp Sugar
– Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick slices and toast until crispy.
3. Top each toasted slice with a piece of smoked salmon, some pickled red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Mango Salsa Cups
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing fusion of smoky salmon and sweet mango salsa, all wrapped up in a crispy cup.
Ingredients:
– 1 package smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 corn tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked salmon, mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in small cups or ramekins.
5. Spoon the salmon-mango mixture over the tortilla chips.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly (optional).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Chive Cheese Ball
Elevate your snack game with this elegant and flavorful cheese ball, featuring the rich taste of smoked salmon and the subtle oniony zing of chives. Perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tbsp smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and chives until smooth.
3. Add smoked salmon, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Wrap mixture in plastic wrap and shape into a ball.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned on the outside.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Dip with Bagel Chips
A flavorful and elegant appetizer or snack that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick gathering or as a delicious addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bagel chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Stir in the flaked smoked salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the dip with bagel chips.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Endive Spears with Horseradish
A refreshing and flavorful appetizer that pairs the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the tangy kick of horseradish. This elegant dish is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 4-6 endive spears
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated horseradish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the endive spears in half lengthwise and place on a serving platter.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, horseradish, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Spoon the salmon mixture onto each endive spear.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the nutty goodness of quinoa. These bite-sized peppers are perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, smoked salmon, feta cheese (if using), and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the elegance of smoked salmon with these 20 delicious appetizer recipes. From classic combinations like smoked salmon and cream cheese to innovative pairings such as mango salsa, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at making smoked salmon bites with dill cream, tartlets with avocado, or deviled eggs with capers. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick snack. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to impress your guests, these elegant recipes are sure to satisfy.