Smoked Salmon Canapes (Blinis)
Smoked salmon blini canapés
These indulgent smoked salmon blinis are the perfect lazy luxury party food as they are so easy to prepare and always delight guests. These smoked salmon canapes are so easy to make in less than 15 minutes, making them the perfect finger food for the busy festive season. Use the best quality smoked salmon you can find.
Smoked salmon is a festive staple in my home country, Ireland. I am so passionate about Irish Smoked Salmon that I have gotten whole sides shipped over to me wherever I am in the world for Christmas and St.Patrick’s Day salmons, usually from Duncannon Smokehouse in County Wexford. Irish salmon is a drier cure with quite a woody smokey taste. Traditionally, we eat it on brown soda bread slathered with butter and maybe a slice of lemon but I also love getting creative with some blinis.
Smoked Salmon Blini Canapés
Ingredients
- 24 blinis
- 400g Smoked salmon
- 1 avocado
- 2 tablespoons of Creme fraiche or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Spritz of lemon juice
- Dill to garnish
- Caviar or fish roe (pictured is Euro 20 French-reared caviar)
- A few sprigs of dill
- Salt & Pepper
Instructions
Ingredients
Makes 24
24 blinis
400g Smoked salmon
1 avocado
2 tablespoons of Creme fraiche or sour cream
1 tablespoon of butter
Zest of 1 lemon
Spritz of lemon juice
Dill to garnish
Caviar or fish roe (pictured is Euro 20 French-reared caviar)
A few sprigs of dill
Salt & Pepper
Method
Slice the salmon and divide into 24 portions,
Warm the blinis in a dry pan and assemble the toppings on the blinis
Avocado Topping: Mash the avocado with a spritz of lemon juice, a sprinkle of salt and a tablespoon of crème fraîche. Spread a little of the avocado cream on blinis, lay on a twisted slice of salmon and top with a little blob of the avocado cream
Lemon Zest Crème fraîche Topping: Combine some crème fraîche with the lemon zest, a spritz of lemon and a sprinkle of salt. Spread on the blini, lay on a twisted slice of salmon and top with a small blob of the cream mixture and garnish with a herb such as dill.
Caviar Topping: Spread a little butter on a blini, lay on a twisted piece of salmon and top with caviar.
Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to serve smoked salmon on?
The best thing to serve smoked salmon on depends on your preference and the occasion. Traditional options include blinis, which are small Russian pancakes, Irish soda bread or toasted rye bread. However, you can also serve it on crackers, toasted baguettes, or even vegetables like cucumber slices. The key is to choose a base that complements the delicate flavor of the smoked salmon.
What toppings go with smoked salmon?
Smoked salmon pairs well with a variety of toppings. Classic options include crème fraîche, sour cream, Russian smetana, lemon, capers, red onion, and fresh dill. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor. For a more savory option, consider topping your smoked salmon with caviar or smoked trout roe.
What to use instead of blinis?
If you don't have blinis on hand, there are several other options you can use as a base for your smoked salmon. Rye bread or soda bread are a classic choice, as it complements the smoky flavor of the salmon. You can also use crackers, such as water crackers or rye crackers. For a healthier option, consider using cucumber slices or avocado toast.
How do you present smoked salmon at a party?
To present smoked salmon at a party, consider creating a visually appealing platter. Arrange the smoked salmon on a platter with a variety of toppings, such as crème fraîche, dill, avocado or lemon wedges. You can also add a selection of crackers or bread for guests to choose from. For a more elegant presentation, consider using a recipe card to provide guests with information about the smoked salmon and its pairings.
What cheese pairs well with smoked salmon?
A creamy cheese, such as cream cheese, ricotta or goat cheese, pairs well with the rich, smoky flavor of smoked salmon.
Which condiments go with smoked salmon?
A variety of condiments can be used to enhance the flavor of smoked salmon. Lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper are classic choices. You can also add a dollop of horseradish cream or mustard for a bit of heat.
What kind of crackers go best with smoked salmon?
When choosing crackers for smoked salmon, look for something that is crisp and flavorful. Water crackers and rye crackers are popular choices, as they are both light and crisp. You can also use baguette slices or crostini for a more substantial option.
How do you dress up smoked salmon?
To dress up smoked salmon, you can add a variety of toppings and garnishes. Consider adding fresh dill, capers, or red onion. You can also drizzle the salmon with a lemon-dill sauce or a cream cheese-horseradish spread.
How to present a side of smoked salmon?
When presenting a side of smoked salmon, use an oblong-shaped dish, platter or board. Arrange the smoked salmon surrounded by a variety of toppings and garnishes such as capers, dill, finely chopped red onion, sour cream or smetana and lemon wedges. You can also include a selection of blinis, crackers or bread.
Does smoked salmon go on a charcuterie board?
Yes, smoked salmon is a popular addition to charcuterie boards. Although it is better to keep fish separate to the meats. Smoked salmon adds a delicate, smoky flavor that complements the other cured meats and cheeses on the board. When arranging the board, consider placing the smoked salmon near the edge of the board, so it doesn't get lost among the other ingredients.
What is crème fraîche and can I replace it with sour cream?
Crème fraîche is acidulated cream that is popular in French cuisine. If you cannot find it then you can easily replace it with sour cream.