Smoked Salmon Canapés

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoked Salmon Canapés are simple to assemble yet look and taste impressive. The combination of rich salmon, tangy cream cheese, and crunchy bases creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. They’re quick to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser—ideal for entertaining without the stress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Smoked salmon slices
• Cream cheese (or crème fraîche)
• Fresh dill or chives (chopped)
• Lemon zest or juice
• Black pepper
• Crackers, mini toasts, cucumber slices, or blini (for the base)
• Optional: capers, red onion (finely diced), horseradish, or avocado

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese with lemon zest, a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped herbs, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Prepare your base—crackers, blini, or cucumber slices—and lay them out on a serving platter.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture on each base.
4. Top with a small piece of smoked salmon, folded or rolled for presentation.
5. Garnish with extra herbs, capers, or a sprinkle of finely chopped red onion.
6. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20 canapés.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Cucumber Base: Use thick cucumber slices for a fresh, low-carb version.
• Avocado Spread: Swap cream cheese for mashed avocado for a dairy-free twist.
• Herb Cheese: Use an herbed goat cheese or Boursin for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a hint of horseradish or sriracha to the cream cheese mix.
• Sweet Touch: Drizzle with a bit of honey or balsamic glaze for contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Smoked Salmon Canapés are best enjoyed fresh, but can be made up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Do not freeze. The texture of the salmon and cream cheese will be affected by freezing.
Avoid reheating, as these are intended to be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add garnishes just before serving for freshness.

What’s the best base for canapés?

Mini toasts, crackers, blini, or cucumber slices all work well depending on the texture and flavor you prefer.

Can I use lox instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, lox or cold-smoked salmon are ideal for this appetizer.

What herbs go well with smoked salmon?

Dill, chives, parsley, and tarragon all pair beautifully with salmon.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be! Just use gluten-free crackers or cucumber slices as your base.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cream cheese or mashed avocado as the spread.

How do I keep the base from getting soggy?

Assemble just before serving and avoid overloading with spread.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Absolutely—try herb, garlic, or even horseradish-flavored cream cheese for extra dimension.

How long can they sit out?

They can be left out for up to 1 hour, but should be kept chilled if made ahead of time.

What’s the best way to cut the smoked salmon?

Use a sharp knife to slice the salmon into thin strips or small pieces that fold neatly on top of each canapé.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Canapés are a quick, stylish appetizer that brings flavor, elegance, and ease to your table. Perfect for brunches, celebrations, or anytime you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, these delicate bites strike the ideal balance of creamy, salty, and crisp. Serve them chilled and watch them disappear.

Smoked Salmon Canapés

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Smoked Salmon Canapés are elegant bite-sized appetizers made with a crisp base, creamy spread, and delicate smoked salmon, garnished with herbs or citrus. Perfect for brunches, parties, or special occasions.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 20 canapés
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: European

Ingredients

• 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
• 4 oz cream cheese or crème fraîche
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill or chives, chopped
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 20 small crackers, mini toasts, cucumber slices, or blini
• Optional: 1 tbsp capers
• Optional: 1 tbsp finely diced red onion
• Optional: 1 tsp horseradish or mashed avocado

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese with lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped herbs, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Lay out the chosen base (crackers, cucumber slices, blini, or toasts) on a serving platter.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture on each base.
4. Top with a piece of smoked salmon, folded or rolled for presentation.
5. Garnish with extra herbs, capers, or finely chopped red onion if desired.
6. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

• Assemble close to serving time to prevent sogginess.
• Use gluten-free or low-carb bases like cucumber slices if needed.
• Swap cream cheese with avocado or dairy-free alternatives for dietary needs.
• Experiment with flavored cream cheeses or toppings like balsamic glaze for variety.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 canapés
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg