Smoked Salmon Canapés

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 24
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Smoked Salmon Canapés are an elegant appetizer that will have your guests swooning with delight. These little bites combine creamy, citrusy, and briny flavors that are perfect for any gathering, big or small.

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Canapés

Cream cheese is the smooth, rich base that holds everything together. Its mild flavor lets the other ingredients shine while adding a creamy texture. Fresh dill brings a pop of herby brightness that complements the salmon beautifully. A hint of lemon zest adds a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness. The star of the show, smoked salmon, provides a savory, smoky depth. Capers introduce a salty, briny punch that elevates each bite. Finally, small round crackers act as the perfect crunchy vessel for this delightful combination.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you begin to ensure it’s easy to spread.
  • Use a zester or microplane for the lemon zest to get the finest pieces, which will blend seamlessly into the cream cheese.
  • If you’re short on time, pre-mix the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

These canapés pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a light white such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a more substantial spread, consider serving alongside a charcuterie board with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely! Any sturdy cracker will do, just ensure they’re not too large or too strongly flavored.
What if I don't like capers?
No problem! You can skip them or substitute with thinly sliced olives for a similar briny kick.
Can these be made ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble them just before serving to keep the crackers from getting soggy. However, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and slice the salmon in advance.

Smoked Salmon Canapés Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a medium bowl and tossing in the cream cheese. Make sure it’s nicely softened — this will make mixing in the fresh dill and lemon zest a breeze. Use a spatula or a spoon to stir until everything's well combined and smooth.

Now, take your crackers and lay them out on a tray. Spread about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker. Don’t worry about being too precise — a little rustic charm never hurt anyone!

Next, gently drape a slice of smoked salmon over the cream cheese layer. Fold or tuck it as needed so it sits nicely on the cracker. You’re looking for a balance of flavors in each bite, so adjust the salmon if the slices are a bit large.

For a burst of salty goodness, sprinkle a few capers on top of the salmon. These little gems pack a punch, so a light hand is best.

Finally, finish each canapé with a small sprig of fresh dill for a touch of color and flavor. Arrange them on a platter and you’re set to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to assemble, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
  • Combines rich, creamy textures with fresh, vibrant flavors.
  • Visually stunning with minimal effort — your guests will think you spent hours!
  • Versatile enough to suit any occasion, from brunches to cocktail parties.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 lb smoked salmon, thinly sliced
1 jar capers, drained
48 small round crackers
Fresh dill sprigs for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Spread about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker.
3. Gently place a slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese layer.
4. Add a few capers on top of the salmon.
5. Garnish each canapé with a small sprig of fresh dill.
6. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

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