Patrick Oconnell
Salmon and cheese is a classic combination, but choosing the right type of cheese to complement the rich, delicate flavour of salmon can be tricky. The best cheese for salmon depends on how the salmon is prepared. For example, grilled or pan-seared salmon pairs well with sharp cheeses like cheddar, gruyere, or feta, which offer a delightful contrast to the rich flavour of the fish. On the other hand, smoked salmon goes well with creamy, mild cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, or brie. Baked salmon can be enhanced by a creamy cheese sauce, such as a blend of cream cheese and goat cheese. Ultimately, the best cheese for salmon is a matter of personal preference, so don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese and find your favourite combinations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cream cheese, goat cheese, ricotta, cheddar, Gruyere, feta, Parmesan, Boursin |
| Salmon type | Smoked, grilled, pan-seared, baked, gravlax |
| Texture | Creamy, soft, smooth, firm, crispy |
| Flavour | Delicate, smoky, salty, tangy, nutty, sweet |
| Accompaniments | Crackers, bagels, bread, fruits, vegetables, wine |
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What You'll Learn
- Cream cheese is a simple, smooth choice for smoked salmon
- Sharp cheddar provides a nice contrast to grilled or pan-seared salmon
- Goat cheese is a mild, creamy option that complements salmon pâté
- Gruyere is nutty and slightly sweet, excellent for grilled salmon
- Feta is a tangy, salty cheese that balances the richness of salmon
Cream cheese is a simple, smooth choice for smoked salmon
When it comes to smoked salmon, cream cheese is a classic choice for a reason. Its smooth and creamy texture provides a neutral base that enhances the salmon's flavour without overpowering it. Cream cheese has a subtle, mild taste that won't overpower the delicate, smoky notes of the salmon, creating a well-balanced pairing.
Cream cheese is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways with smoked salmon. For a simple yet elegant option, spread cream cheese on crackers or bread and top it with a slice of smoked salmon. You can also add fresh herbs, capers, or thinly sliced cucumbers for extra flavour and texture. Another popular choice is to create a smoked salmon dip by blending cream cheese, sour cream, chopped dill, and smoked salmon in a food processor until smooth. Serve this dip with crackers or a sliced baguette for a delicious appetizer that's sure to impress your guests.
If you're a fan of bagels, cream cheese is the perfect companion to smoked salmon. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on a toasted bagel, add a layer of smoked salmon, and top it off with fresh tomatoes, avocado, or cucumbers. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can take your bagel to the next level.
Cream cheese is also an excellent choice for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavours and textures. For a unique twist, try incorporating ingredients like capers or dill into your cream cheese. You can also explore different types of bagels, such as everything bagels or sesame seed crackers, to add a crunchy texture and a hint of nuttiness to your bite. Don't be afraid to get creative and find your favourite combinations!
When selecting cream cheese for your smoked salmon, opt for a high-quality brand with a smooth and creamy texture. You can choose between original, reduced-fat, or whipped cream cheese, depending on your preference. Remember, cream cheese is just the beginning—you can elevate your dish even further by exploring various toppings, spreads, and accompaniments. So, whether you're hosting a brunch, preparing an appetizer, or simply indulging in a personal treat, cream cheese is a versatile and delectable partner for smoked salmon.
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Sharp cheddar provides a nice contrast to grilled or pan-seared salmon
Salmon is a versatile fish with a rich, delicate flavour that pairs well with a variety of cheeses. The type of cheese that goes best with salmon depends on how the salmon is prepared. For instance, grilled or pan-seared salmon pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses like cheddar, providing a nice contrast to the dish.
Sharp cheddar, with its robust flavour and firm texture, cuts through the richness of grilled or pan-seared salmon, creating an exciting taste experience. The sharpness of the cheddar provides a delightful contrast to the delicate, rich flavour of the salmon. This combination is especially successful when the salmon is grilled or pan-seared, as the cooking methods enhance the flavour profiles of both ingredients. The result is a dish that is both visually appealing and a delight to savour.
A recipe for cheesy baked salmon includes topping the fish with cheddar cheese and green onions, creating a unique and tasty dish. Another variation of this recipe suggests using extra sharp white cheddar cheese and serving the salmon on a bed of asparagus. However, some reviewers recommend substituting the cheddar with Swiss cheese and omitting the onions for a slightly different take on the dish.
For those who prefer a milder flavour, a young cheddar can be used instead of a sharp cheddar. This milder variety will complement the salmon without overwhelming its delicate taste. Additionally, a creamy cheese sauce, made with a blend of cream cheese and goat cheese, can enhance the flavour of baked salmon. This combination results in a rich and creamy dish that highlights the delicate flavours of the salmon.
When serving salmon and cheese, it is recommended to include complementary elements such as crusty bread, crackers, or bagels. Fresh herbs, capers, or thinly sliced cucumbers can also add extra flavour and texture to the dish. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is an excellent choice to complement both the salmon and the cheese.
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Goat cheese is a mild, creamy option that complements salmon pâté
Goat cheese is a fantastic option to pair with salmon pâté. Its mild, creamy texture and flavour complement the salmon perfectly. There are several ways to prepare this combination, from a simple spread to a more intricate dish.
For a simple yet delicious option, a smoked salmon spread with goat cheese is a great choice. This recipe, inspired by artist Claude Monet, involves mixing goat cheese, half-and-half (or milk and cream), chives, thyme, lemon peel, and salt. Once combined, you can add the smoked salmon and serve it with bread, crackers, or vegetables like cucumbers, snap peas, or radish slices. This spread is a perfect balance of salty and umami flavours, and pairing it with sparkling wine can enhance the experience.
If you prefer a warm dish, baking salmon with goat cheese is an excellent option. One popular recipe involves stuffing the salmon fillets with herbed goat cheese and topping them with a Dijon-mayonnaise mixture before baking. Another similar recipe includes spreading pesto on the salmon fillets and sprinkling goat cheese on top before baking. Both recipes result in a delicious, impressive dish that is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Goat cheese's mild and creamy characteristics make it an ideal match for salmon pâté, enhancing the flavour and texture of the dish. Whether enjoyed as a simple spread or a baked entrée, the combination of goat cheese and salmon is a delightful culinary experience.
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Gruyere is nutty and slightly sweet, excellent for grilled salmon
Gruyere is a salty, nutty, and slightly sweet cheese that is excellent when paired with grilled salmon. This combination can be seen in recipes for grilled cheese sandwiches, seared salmon with shallot and gruyere risotto, and grilled salmon with gruyere creamed spinach.
Gruyere is a salty and creamy cheese that blends perfectly with salmon in a risotto recipe. The salmon filets are seasoned with kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest, then cooked in olive oil. The risotto is made with arborio rice, chicken broth, butter, white wine, and gruyere. The cheese is stirred into the risotto until melted, creating a creamy and cheesy dish.
Grilled salmon with gruyere creamed spinach is another delicious option. This recipe involves grilling the salmon and preparing the creamed spinach separately. The spinach is made by creating a roux with butter, garlic, shallots, and flour, then adding half-and-half and chicken broth. Shredded gruyere cheese is mixed into the sauce until melted, and finally, chopped spinach is incorporated until wilted. The salmon is cooked in a frying pan with garlic ghee, with the skin side cooked first, resulting in a tender and crispy dish.
Gruyere can also be used to elevate a simple grilled cheese sandwich when paired with smoked salmon and Meyer lemon. This sandwich is made by layering slices of bread with smoked salmon, gruyere, and chives, then topping it with another slice of bread. The sandwich is buttered and grilled on both sides until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
The unique flavor and texture of gruyere, with its slight sweetness and nuttiness, make it an excellent pairing for grilled salmon. Whether used in a sandwich, risotto, or as a topping, gruyere enhances the flavor of the salmon and creates a delicious and nutritious meal.
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Feta is a tangy, salty cheese that balances the richness of salmon
Feta cheese is a Greek staple that's known for its tangy and salty flavour. It's made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk, and it's brined to enhance its taste and texture. This brining process also extends the cheese's shelf life, making it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy its unique flavour over a longer period.
When it comes to salmon, feta is an excellent choice as it provides a tangy, salty contrast to the rich flavour of the fish. This contrast is especially prominent in Mediterranean salmon burgers, where feta adds depth of flavour while keeping the patty moist and tender. The low-fat content of feta also helps to balance the overall richness of the dish.
In a Greek-inspired roasted salmon dish, feta is added towards the end of cooking. After coating the salmon with a garlic-infused compound butter and roasting it, the fish is then topped with crumbled feta and broiled until the cheese is lightly golden and creamy. This technique ensures the salmon is cooked to perfection while still enjoying the benefits of the feta's flavour and texture.
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta, sandwiches, wraps, and roasted vegetables. Its tangy and salty profile makes it a perfect complement to many ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, and meats. For instance, the sweetness of watermelon or tomatoes balances the saltiness of feta, while the cheese's acidity cuts through the richness of grilled meats.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several cheeses that go well with salmon, depending on how the salmon is prepared. Smoked salmon pairs well with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, or a mild brie. Grilled or pan-seared salmon goes well with sharp cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or feta. Baked salmon is complemented by a creamy cheese sauce, such as a blend of cream cheese and goat cheese.
Cheese and salmon can be served in a variety of ways. They can be placed on a charcuterie board with crackers or bread, such as crusty bread or bagels. They can also be served with fruits and vegetables, such as fresh herbs, capers, or thinly sliced cucumbers. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, also complements both salmon and most cheeses.
One option is to create a smoked salmon dip by mixing cream cheese, sour cream, chopped dill, and smoked salmon in a food processor and serving it with crackers or sliced baguette. Another option is to make a cheesy baked salmon dish with garlic, dill, and cheddar cheese.
