Smoked Salmon Appetizer For Salmon Saturday And Wine Night Recipe

Picture this: I’m hosting my dream get-together, and I’ve just created the ultimate appetizer that has my friends raving—crispy baguette slices topped with luscious layers of cream cheese, fresh dill, and the irresistible combination of smoked salmon and zesty garnishes.

On Salmon Saturday and wine night, I love serving my smoked salmon appetizer. It combines the luscious texture of smoked salmon with creamy, softened cream cheese, vibrant fresh dill, and a hint of citrusy lemon zest and juice.

Spread on baguette slices that have been brushed with olive oil, these bites are a delicious source of Omega-3s. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine.

The briny capers and optional red onion add a delightful burst of flavor. And if there are kids or any people who would prefer a dish without fish, I make a smoked trout version of the appetizer that tastes just as amazing.

Ingredients

• Smoked Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, providing heart-healthy benefits and excellent protein.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creamy texture and mild flavor; contains calcium and vitamin A.
• Fresh Dill: Herbaceous flavor enhancer; provides antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Capers: Tangy and salty; low calorie, fiber-rich, and contain antioxidants.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens flavors with citrus tang; high in vitamin C.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats; adds richness and smooth finish.

Ingredient Quantities

• 8 ounces of smoked salmon
• 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of capers, drained
• 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: thinly sliced red onion for garnish

How to Make this

1. Set the temperature of your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices of baguette on a sheet for baking.

2. Lightly brush the baguette slices with olive oil on one side.

3. Place the bread in the preheated oven. Toast for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.

4. In a medium basin, blend the spreadable cream cheese, citrus juice, citrus zest, chopped dill, and a little salt and pepper until smooth.

5. Apply an ample amount of the cream cheese blend to each slice of toasted baguette.

6. Set slices of smoked salmon atop the cream cheese layer.

7. Strew a handful of capers over each slice of salmon.

8. If you use it, place a few slices of red onion on top of each appetizer.

9. Sprinkle each piece with a garnish of freshly chopped chives.

10. Immediately serve and enjoy this with your favorite wine.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Pastry brush
4. Medium mixing bowl
5. Whisk or spoon for mixing
6. Zester or grater
7. Citrus juicer
8. Sharp knife
9. Cutting board
10. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Can I use another type of bread instead of a baguette?You may employ any sturdy bread, such as ciabatta or crostini, for this recipe.
• What can I substitute for fresh dill?You can use dried dill if you don’t have fresh dill, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon because dried herbs are more potent.
• Can I make this appetizer in advance?The cream cheese mixture can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Baguette slices should be assembled just before serving for maximum crispness.
• Is there a substitute for smoked salmon for those who don’t eat fish?For an option that doesn’t involve seafood, give thinly sliced prosciutto or roasted red pepper strips a try.
• How should I store leftovers?Any assembled but uneaten appetizers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, the bread may become soggy.
• What type of wine pairs well with this appetizer?A white wine with body, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a sparkling wine like Champagne, pairs perfectly with the flavors.

Smoked Salmon Appetizer For Salmon Saturday And Wine Night Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute with gravlax or another type of cured fish like trout for a different flavor profile: Smoked salmon.

Gravlax: Not available?
Cream cheese. Substitute goat cheese or mascarpone for a more piquant flavor.
Fresh dill: If they don’t have dill, they can substitute it with fresh parsley or chives.
Lemon juice and zest: Use lime juice and zest for a different citrus flavor.
Substitute crostini or crackers for a different texture with this baguette recipe.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-toast Flavor Infusion Before toasting the baguette slices, rub a cut clove of garlic on the surface to add a subtle garlicky flavor that complements the salmon and cream cheese.

2. Cream Cheese Enhancement Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor and a slight kick.

3. Balanced Seasoning Taste the cream cheese mixture before spreading to ensure it’s seasoned well. Smoked salmon is inherently salty, so ensuring a balanced flavor with lemon juice and zest is key.

4. Texture Variation For additional texture, incorporate finely chopped celery or radishes into the cream cheese mixture for crunch.

5. Freshness Boost Just before serving, squeeze a bit more fresh lemon juice over the assembled appetizers to brighten and enhance the flavors.