Ultimate Smoked Salmon Recipes: 15 Delicious Dishes

Introduction to Smoked Salmon Recipes

Smoked salmon is one of the most versatile and delicious ingredients you can incorporate into your meals. With its rich, smoky flavor and delicate texture, smoked salmon can elevate any dish. Whether you're preparing a simple brunch or creating a gourmet dinner, there are countless ways to use smoked salmon. In this article, we'll explore 15 fantastic smoked salmon recipes that you can try today, ranging from quick snacks to full meals that will leave you craving more.

Smoked salmon is a favorite in many cuisines worldwide. It’s enjoyed in everything from classic appetizers to creative modern dishes. The best part is, smoked salmon is a protein-rich, healthy addition to your meals, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Whether you're looking for a savory breakfast, a light lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, these recipes will inspire you to make the most of this tasty fish.

Let’s dive into the world of smoked salmon and explore these mouthwatering recipes!

1. Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese

One of the most iconic ways to enjoy smoked salmon is on a fresh bagel with cream cheese. This classic dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 fresh bagel
• 2 ounces smoked salmon
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon capers
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Toast the bagel halves until golden brown.
2. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on both halves of the bagel.
3. Layer the smoked salmon slices on top of the cream cheese.
4. Add capers and red onion slices.
5. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.

This simple dish can be customized with other toppings like cucumbers, tomatoes, or even a poached egg for added richness. Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience.

2. Smoked Salmon Salad with Avocado

A smoked salmon salad is a perfect light meal that combines fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and the smoky flavor of the salmon. This recipe is quick to prepare and full of healthy fats and protein.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces smoked salmon
• Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes together.
2. Arrange the avocado slices and smoked salmon on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately for a light, refreshing meal.

This salad is perfect for a summer lunch or a healthy dinner. You can also add some nuts, seeds, or cheese for extra flavor and crunch.

3. Smoked Salmon Pasta

Smoked salmon pasta is a sophisticated yet simple dish that combines the delicate flavor of the salmon with a rich cream sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, torn into pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain, reserving some of the cooking water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked salmon and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese.
4. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding a bit of pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.

This pasta is rich, creamy, and indulgent, with the smoky salmon adding an extra layer of flavor.

4. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast

Avocado toast has become a favorite breakfast or snack, and when you add smoked salmon to the mix, it takes the dish to a whole new level. This combination is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 1 slice of whole grain bread
• 1/2 avocado, mashed
• 2 ounces smoked salmon
• Lemon zest
• Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toast the slice of bread until crispy and golden.
2. Spread the mashed avocado onto the toast.
3. Top with smoked salmon and sprinkle with lemon zest and fresh herbs.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and enjoy!

This dish is perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy lunch. It’s full of good fats, fiber, and protein.

5. Smoked Salmon Sushi Rolls

Sushi rolls with smoked salmon are a fantastic way to enjoy this fish in a more Japanese-inspired dish. These smoked salmon sushi rolls are flavorful and easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
• 1/2 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
• 2 ounces smoked salmon
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• Soy sauce for dipping

Instructions

1. Place the nori sheet on a sushi mat, shiny side down.
2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Lay the smoked salmon and cucumber strips in a line along the center of the rice.
4. Roll up the sushi tightly, using the sushi mat to help shape the roll.
5. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce.

These smoked salmon sushi rolls are a fun way to bring the flavors of sushi to your kitchen with minimal effort.

6. Smoked Salmon Quiche

Quiche is a savory pie that’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner. This smoked salmon quiche combines the creamy egg filling with the smoky flavor of the salmon for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

• 1 prepared pie crust
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and cream together. Stir in the cheese, smoked salmon, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown on top.
5. Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or casual gatherings.

7. Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies. It’s an easy and elegant dip that’s perfect for parties or a simple snack.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, dill, and lemon juice.
2. Stir in the chopped smoked salmon and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks.

This dip is a crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

8. Smoked Salmon Tacos

Smoked salmon tacos are a fantastic twist on traditional fish tacos. The smoky salmon pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a light dinner or casual meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
• 4 small soft corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Warm the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat until they are soft and pliable.
2. Flake the smoked salmon and distribute it evenly between the tortillas.
3. Top the salmon with diced avocado, shredded cabbage, and a dollop of sour cream.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

These smoked salmon tacos are perfect for a fun, flavorful weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. You can also customize the toppings with salsa, pickled onions, or a tangy hot sauce for extra flavor.

9. Smoked Salmon Breakfast Casserole

For a hearty breakfast or brunch option, a smoked salmon breakfast casserole is the way to go. This casserole is packed with flavor, combining smoked salmon, eggs, and a rich cheese blend. It’s great for serving a crowd and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk or cream
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the chopped smoked salmon, shredded cheese, green onions, and dill.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
5. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This casserole is a great way to enjoy smoked salmon in a breakfast dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete meal.

10. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

For a low-carb, keto-friendly meal, smoked salmon and cream cheese stuffed peppers are a delightful option. These bite-sized treats are perfect as appetizers or light snacks and are incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, smoked salmon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
4. Garnish with fresh dill and serve immediately.

These stuffed peppers are not only low-carb but also packed with flavor. The creamy filling combined with the smoky salmon is a winning combination that’s sure to impress.

11. Smoked Salmon Crostini

Crostini are crunchy, toasted slices of baguette topped with various spreads and toppings. Smoked salmon crostini is a quick and sophisticated appetizer that can be prepared in just a few minutes. They’re perfect for parties or as a light snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 French baguette, sliced into thin rounds
• 4 ounces smoked salmon
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers
• Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
2. Toast the bread in the oven for about 5 minutes or until golden and crispy.
3. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese onto each toasted bread slice.
4. Top with a slice of smoked salmon, then sprinkle with chopped chives and capers.
5. Finish with a touch of lemon zest and serve as an appetizer or snack.

These smoked salmon crostini are a light yet flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or a quick bite. The creamy cheese and smoky salmon make for a delightful combination.

12. Smoked Salmon Sushi Bowls

If you love sushi but don’t want to bother with rolling, smoked salmon sushi bowls are the perfect alternative. They combine the same great flavors of sushi but in an easy-to-assemble bowl format. These bowls are customizable and can be made with whatever toppings you like.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Instructions:

1. Cook the sushi rice according to package directions and let it cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, layer the rice, smoked salmon, avocado, and cucumber.
3. Drizzle with soy sauce and rice vinegar.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with pickled ginger and wasabi on the side.

These sushi bowls are a fun and customizable way to enjoy smoked salmon without the need to roll sushi. They’re quick to assemble and make for a perfect lunch or dinner.

13. Smoked Salmon with Scrambled Eggs

Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs are a classic pairing that works beautifully for breakfast or brunch. The richness of the eggs complements the smoky salmon perfectly, making for a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 2 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and gently scramble until just set.
4. Add the smoked salmon slices and cook for another minute, allowing the salmon to warm through.
5. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with toast or a side salad.

This dish is simple yet elegant, making it a great way to start the day or enjoy a light meal any time of the day.

14. Smoked Salmon Risotto

Smoked salmon risotto is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The smoky flavor of the salmon pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety texture of the risotto, making this a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, heated
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
3. Pour in the white wine and let it reduce slightly.
4. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and letting the liquid absorb before adding more.
5. Once the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the chopped smoked salmon and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This smoked salmon risotto is a decadent dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.

Conclusion

Smoked salmon is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes, from appetizers to main courses. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or an indulgent dinner, smoked salmon can be incorporated in countless ways. Its smoky, rich flavor adds depth and complexity to any dish, making it a popular choice for those seeking something a bit different in their meals.

From smoked salmon crostini to breakfast casseroles, pasta dishes to sushi bowls, the options are endless. Try experimenting with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create your own smoked salmon recipes that suit your taste. And don’t forget that smoked salmon pairs perfectly with fresh herbs, creamy spreads, and tangy sauces for even more flavor.

So, whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, smoked salmon is an ingredient that’s easy to work with and will impress anyone you serve it to. Try these recipes today and enjoy the smoky, savory goodness that smoked salmon brings to the table.