Smoked salmon recipes: 25 delectable dishes to try

Smoked salmon, with its rich, savory flavor and delicate texture, has long been a favorite among food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated brunch, a light lunch, or an elegant dinner, smoked salmon recipes offer a versatile and delicious option. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 25 mouthwatering ways to incorporate smoked salmon into your culinary repertoire, ranging from timeless classics to innovative new creations.

From quick and easy appetizers to elaborate main courses, these smoked salmon recipes are designed to inspire both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. We’ll delve into the nuances of working with smoked salmon, explore various cooking techniques, and discover exciting flavor combinations that will elevate your dishes to new heights.

So, let’s embark on this gastronomic journey and uncover the delicious potential of smoked salmon in your kitchen!

Classic Smoked Salmon Recipes

1. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel

No smoked salmon collection is complete without this timeless combination.

Ingredients:

• 1 bagel, sliced and toasted
• 2 oz softened cream cheese
• 2 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp capers, drained
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese on both halves of the toasted bagel.
2. Layer the smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
3. Add capers and red onion slices.
4. Garnish with fresh dill.

This classic blend of flavors and textures makes it a go-to option for breakfast or lunch.

2. Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict

Elevate your brunch with this refined take on a classic dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 English muffins, split and toasted
• 4 eggs
• 4 oz smoked salmon
• Hollandaise sauce
• Chopped fresh chives

Instructions:

1. Poach the eggs in simmering water for 3-4 minutes.
2. Place the smoked salmon on each half of the toasted English muffins.
3. Top with a poached egg and spoon hollandaise sauce over the top.
4. Sprinkle with chopped chives.

For guidance on making hollandaise sauce, check out the BBC Good Food Hollandaise Sauce Recipe.

3. Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bites

These refined canapés are perfect for entertaining or as a light snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, sliced into rounds
• 4 oz smoked salmon, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup crème fraîche
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Place a small dollop of crème fraîche on each cucumber slice.
2. Top with a piece of smoked salmon.
3. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon zest.

These crisp, refreshing appetizers provide the perfect balance to the rich salmon.

Light Meals and Salads

4. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad

This healthy salad combines the richness of smoked salmon with creamy avocado.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 6 oz flaked smoked salmon
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp capers
• Lemon vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. Arrange the greens on a plate.
2. Top with flaked smoked salmon, avocado slices, and red onion.
3. Sprinkle with capers.
4. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette just before serving.

Packed with nutrients, this salad is both flavorful and nourishing.

5. Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Frittata

This simple yet elegant frittata is perfect for brunch.

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs and milk, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the asparagus in an oven-safe skillet until tender.
3. Add the smoked salmon, then pour in the egg mixture.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Cook for 5 minutes on the stovetop, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until set.

This frittata is a quick and delicious way to incorporate smoked salmon into your meal plan.

Pasta and Grain Dishes

6. Smoked Salmon Carbonara

An upscale variation on the classic Italian pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti following the package instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, Parmesan, cream, and black pepper together.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil until it’s aromatic.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and quickly stir in the egg mixture and smoked salmon, tossing until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta well.
5. Toss everything until it’s heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley.

This indulgent pasta recipe adds a subtle smoky flavor to the traditional carbonara.

7. Smoked Salmon and Dill Risotto

A rich and creamy rice dish with an elegant twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups fish or vegetable stock
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 6 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, sauté the diced onion in butter until translucent.
2. Add the Arborio rice, stirring until it’s fully coated in butter.
3. Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer until almost fully absorbed.
4. Gradually add the stock, stirring constantly, until the rice reaches a creamy texture.
5. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the smoked salmon, dill, lemon zest, and Parmesan.

This risotto highlights how smoked salmon can bring a sophisticated flair to a simple rice dish.

8. Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

These striking appetizers are a perfect party treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 8 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp capers, drained and chopped

Instructions:

1. Spread the cream cheese evenly over each tortilla.
2. Arrange the smoked salmon slices on top, then sprinkle with fresh dill and capers.
3. Roll each tortilla tightly, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Slice into pinwheels and serve.

These colorful pinwheels are not just delicious but also visually appealing.

9. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

A delicious appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of smoked salmon.

Ingredients:

• 24 medium-sized mushrooms, stems removed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, smoked salmon, chives, and garlic.
3. Fill the mushroom caps with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.

These stuffed mushrooms offer a refined twist on a classic party snack.

Main Courses

10. Smoked Salmon and Spinach Quiche

An adaptable dish that works well for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted and drained
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk the eggs and cream together in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Layer the spinach, smoked salmon, and Gruyère cheese inside the pie crust.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the filling and sprinkle with dill.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is golden and fully set.

This quiche is a delicious way to enjoy smoked salmon in a hearty, satisfying dish.

11. Smoked Salmon and Leek Tart

A refined tart, perfect for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 2 leeks, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sauté the leeks in butter until soft and tender.
3. Roll out the puff pastry and fit it into a tart pan.
4. Spread the cream cheese over the pastry base, then top with leeks and smoked salmon.
5. Whisk together the eggs and cream, then pour over the filling.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tart is set and golden brown.

This tart blends the sweetness of leeks with the rich, smoky flavor of salmon, making it perfect for special meals.

12. Smoked Salmon Club Sandwich

A gourmet version of the classic club sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 3 slices whole grain bread, toasted
• 4 oz smoked salmon
• 2 slices bacon, cooked crisp
• 1 small avocado, sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise mixed with 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Spread the lemon-infused mayonnaise on each slice of toast.
2. On one slice, layer lettuce, smoked salmon, and avocado.
3. Top with the second slice of toast, then add bacon and more lettuce.
4. Finish with the last slice of toast and secure with toothpicks.

This sandwich delivers a delicious combination of flavors and textures with every bite.

13. Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Wrap

A fresh and light wrap, perfect for warm days.

Ingredients:

• 1 large spinach tortilla
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 oz smoked salmon
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Mixed salad greens

Instructions:

1. Spread the softened cream cheese over the tortilla.
2. Layer the smoked salmon, cucumber slices, and salad greens.
3. Sprinkle with dill, roll it up tightly, and slice in half.

This wrap makes for a refreshing and healthy meal, ideal for a quick lunch.

Breakfast and Brunch Ideas

14. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Scrambled Eggs

A quick yet indulgent breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 3 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 2 tbsp chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the eggs and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Scramble the eggs in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. When the eggs are nearly cooked, stir in the cream cheese and smoked salmon.
4. Cook until the eggs are set and the cream cheese has melted.
5. Garnish with chopped chives.

These scrambled eggs offer a rich, creamy breakfast that’s easy to prepare.

15. Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Quiche Cups

These bite-sized quiches are perfect for a brunch table.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed and cut into 12 squares
• 6 eggs
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 1 cup asparagus, chopped and lightly steamed
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Press the puff pastry squares into a muffin tin to form crusts.
3. Whisk the eggs and cream together, seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Divide the smoked salmon, asparagus, and Gruyère cheese evenly among the pastry cups.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

These mini quiches are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a great addition to any brunch spread.ng.

Seafood Fusion Dishes

16. Smoked Salmon Sushi Rolls

A fusion dish combining the best of sushi and smoked salmon.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
• 4 nori sheets
• 6 oz smoked salmon
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, cut into thin strips
• Cream cheese, sliced into strips
• Soy sauce and wasabi for serving

Instructions:

1. Lay a nori sheet on a bamboo mat.
2. Spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch strip at the top.
3. Arrange smoked salmon, avocado, cucumber, and cream cheese in a line across the center.
4. Roll the nori tightly using the bamboo mat, sealing the edge with water.
5. Slice into rounds and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.

This sushi roll is the perfect fusion for sushi and smoked salmon enthusiasts.

17. Smoked Salmon and Crab Cakes

A luxurious twist on the classic crab cakes.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz crab meat
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients except the oil.
2. Shape the mixture into small patties.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

These crab cakes provide a delightful combination of crab and smoked salmon flavors.

18. Smoked Salmon and Pea Risotto

A rich and creamy dish with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or fish stock
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 6 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, sauté the onion in butter until translucent.
2. Stir the rice into the pan, making sure it’s fully coated with the butter.
3. Add a splash of broth and let it simmer until fully absorbed.
4. Gradually add stock, stirring continuously, until the rice is creamy and fully cooked.
5. Stir in the peas, smoked salmon, Parmesan, lemon zest, and dill.
6. Season with salt and pepper.

This risotto balances the richness of smoked salmon with the freshness of peas.

19. Smoked Salmon and Spinach Lasagna

A unique and sophisticated twist on traditional lasagna.

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted and chopped
• 8 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 2 cups béchamel sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix the ricotta, spinach, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the béchamel, lasagna noodles, ricotta mixture, and smoked salmon.
4. Repeat the layers, ending with béchamel and mozzarella on top.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

This lasagna offers a sophisticated blend of flavors, perfect for impressing dinner guests.

20. Smoked Salmon Niçoise Salad

A fresh twist on the classic French Niçoise salad.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1/2 lb new potatoes, boiled and quartered
• 1/2 lb green beans, blanched
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
• Lemon-Dijon vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. Arrange the salad greens on a large serving platter.
2. Layer the potatoes, green beans, eggs, tomatoes, and olives on top.
3. Add the flaked smoked salmon on top.
4. Drizzle with lemon-Dijon vinaigrette just before serving.

This refreshing Niçoise salad offers a perfect balance of flavors for a light meal.

21. Smoked Salmon and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious and protein-packed bowl, rich in omega-3s.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp capers
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing

Instructions:

1. Divide the quinoa between two bowls.
2. Top each bowl with smoked salmon, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and capers.
3. Sprinkle with fresh dill.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

This nutritious bowl is packed with flavor and makes for a healthy, satisfying meal.

22. Smoked Salmon Blinis

Mini pancakes topped with smoked salmon, perfect for elegant gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup buckwheat flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 8 oz smoked salmon
• 1/2 cup crème fraîche
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mix the flours, baking powder, milk, eggs, and melted butter to create the batter.
2. Cook small pancakes (blinis) in a non-stick pan.
3. Top each blini with a dollop of crème fraîche and a slice of smoked salmon.
4. Garnish with fresh dill.

These elegant blinis are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any cocktail party.

23. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Tartare

A fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s both easy and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 tbsp red onion, finely minced
• 1 tbsp capers, drained and chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toasted baguette slices for serving

Instructions:

1. Gently mix the smoked salmon, avocado, red onion, capers, and dill together.
2. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and toss gently.
3. Serve in small portions on toasted baguette slices.

This tartare delivers a delicious contrast of flavors and textures, perfect for an elegant appetizer.

Breakfast and Brunch Favorites

24. Smoked Salmon Dutch Baby

A puffy pancake with a savory twist.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 oz smoked salmon
• 1/4 cup crème fraîche
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Whisk eggs, milk, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Melt butter in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet.
4. Carefully pour the batter into the heated skillet and place it in the oven.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until puffed and golden.
6. Top with smoked salmon, dollops of crème fraîche, and chives.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

This impressive dish is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.

25. Smoked Salmon and Dill Frittata

A versatile dish that’s great for any meal of the day.

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Add red onion and sauté until soft.
4. Add smoked salmon, dill, capers, and cream cheese to the skillet.
5. Pour over the egg mixture.
6. Cook on stovetop for 5 minutes, then transfer to oven.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set and lightly golden.

This frittata is a delicious way to incorporate smoked salmon into a hearty, protein-rich meal.

Conclusion

These 25 smoked salmon recipes showcase the versatility and delicious potential of this luxurious ingredient. From classic combinations to innovative new dishes, smoked salmon can elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

Remember, when working with smoked salmon:

• A little goes a long way due to its rich flavor.
• It pairs well with creamy ingredients like avocado and cream cheese.
• Fresh herbs, particularly dill, complement its flavor beautifully.
• It’s already cooked, so be careful not to overheat it in recipes.

Whether you’re planning a sophisticated brunch, a light lunch, or an elegant dinner party, these recipes offer something for every occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these dishes – cooking is all about creativity and personal taste.

For more information on the nutritional benefits of salmon, you can visit the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s page on fish.

Happy cooking, and enjoy exploring the delicious world of smoked salmon cuisine!