Smoked Salmon And Crackers: Best Cheesy Combos

Smoked salmon and cheese is a classic combination, but with so many varieties of cheese to choose from, it can be hard to know which one will complement the smoky, salty flavour of the fish. The type of salmon and the way it is served also play a role in determining the best cheese to pair with it. This guide will help you navigate the many options and choose the perfect cheese to enjoy with your smoked salmon and crackers.

Cream cheese and smoked salmon crackers

Cream cheese is the classic choice to pair with smoked salmon. Its cool, tangy flavour contrasts nicely with the oiliness of the fish. To make a simple smoked salmon appetiser, spread some cream cheese on crackers and top with a slice of salmon.

For a more interesting flavour, whip the cream cheese with herbs, citrus, or other mix-ins. You can also substitute with herb-flavoured cream cheese, or, if you're dairy-free, use a vegan cream cheese.

When making smoked salmon and cream cheese crackers, it's best to use quality smoked salmon that is vibrant in colour. Sockeye salmon is a good choice, but you can use whatever is available to you. It's also important to use fresh ingredients, as they make a big difference to any recipe.

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature to make spreading it easier. You can use any large crackers you enjoy, but it's best to use ones with a crunchy texture to balance out the soft texture of the salmon.

• Wash and pat dry fresh dill with paper towels and remove the individual leaves from the main stem. Set aside.
• Spread out the crackers on a large serving plate. Evenly spread about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese per cracker with a butter knife. Feel free to add more if needed.
• Layer two slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese per cracker.
• Sprinkle fresh dill leaves on top of the smoked salmon.
• Lightly sprinkle black pepper and squeeze half a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice on top of the salmon per cracker. Serve and enjoy!

These smoked salmon cream cheese crackers are best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to one day, but the crackers will become soggy over time.

Goat cheese and smoked salmon

Goat cheese is a classic choice to pair with smoked salmon. Its mild, fresh, and subtle tangy flavour, along with its creamy texture, complements the smokiness and saltiness of the salmon. This combination works well on crackers, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.

For a simple smoked salmon appetizer, spread some goat cheese on crackers and top with a slice of salmon. You can also add capers, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of honey-mustard dill sauce. If you want to make it more interesting, whip the goat cheese with herbs, citrus, or other mix-ins.

If you're making a sandwich, try mashing the goat cheese with a fork and adding plain yoghurt to make it more spreadable. Spread the mixture on a slice of bread, top with smoked salmon, and add your choice of vegetables and herbs.

For a charcuterie board, arrange slices of smoked salmon, crackers, and goat cheese on a board or slate. You can also add other cheeses, such as brie or feta, and accompaniments like fresh dill sprigs, cucumbers, or bread.

Brie and smoked salmon

Brie is a soft, spreadable cheese that pairs deliciously with smoked salmon. Young brie has a mild, earthy flavour that won't overpower the salmon. If you prefer a stronger taste, use older brie that is beginning to run in the middle.

One way to serve brie and smoked salmon is as a crostini. Cut a baguette into slices, brush with olive oil, and bake until golden brown. Top each crostini with a slice of brie and a slice of smoked salmon, then bake again until the brie is melted and the salmon is slightly cooked.

Another option is to make a torte. Cut a round of brie in half horizontally, and place slices of smoked salmon on the bottom half. Sprinkle with capers and chopped dill weed, then top with the other half of the cheese. Roll a remaining slice of salmon into a rose shape, and use it to garnish the torte along with some dill weed sprigs. Serve with crackers.

Feta and smoked salmon

Feta is a soft, spreadable cheese that pairs well with smoked salmon. Its salty, briny flavour and crumbly texture make it a great topping for smoked salmon on crackers.

To make feta more spreadable, you can mash it with olive oil. This can be a great addition to a smoked salmon sandwich, along with avocado, tomato, arugula, and a drizzle of olive oil.

For a more elegant appetizer, you can make crostini topped with feta and smoked salmon slices, garnished with fresh dill or capers. This is a great way to impress your guests and elevate your next gathering.

Cheddar and smoked salmon

Smoked salmon and cheddar is a delicious combination that can be used to create a range of dishes, from elegant breakfasts to quick snacks and hearty dinners. Here are some ways to enjoy this flavourful pairing:

Smoked Salmon and Sharp Cheddar Croque-Madame

This elegant and delicious breakfast dish is perfect for a romantic breakfast in bed or a quick morning meal before starting your day. It's easy to prepare and only takes a few minutes to make. Start by toasting slices of your favourite multigrain bread and spreading sour cream on top. Sprinkle with ground black pepper and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, then pop it under the grill until the cheese melts. Meanwhile, fry an egg to your liking, though sunny side up is recommended. Place the smoked salmon on the cheesy toast, add the egg, and sprinkle with fresh herbs for a gourmet breakfast.

Smoked Salmon and Cheddar Penne

For a heartier meal, try this smoked salmon and cheddar penne. It's a simple dish that combines smoked salmon, garlic, tomato sauce, cream, and sharp cheddar cheese with penne pasta. The result is a creamy, flavourful pasta dish that's perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Smoked Salmon Grilled Cheese with Maple Marinated Apricots

This unique grilled cheese sandwich takes inspiration from the West Coast, featuring wild Pacific smoked salmon, Canadian cheese, and seasonal stone fruits. The key is to use great-quality Canadian cheese and to grill the sandwich until the bread is crunchy and the inside is warm and gooey. The maple-marinated apricots add a special touch, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savoury flavours of the sandwich.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Crackers

For a quick and easy snack or appetiser, try smoked salmon and cream cheese crackers. Simply spread some cream cheese on your favourite crackers, add a slice of smoked salmon, and sprinkle with fresh dill, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It's a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the combination of smoked salmon and cheese, and it can be served as a snack or appetiser for a small gathering.

When pairing smoked salmon with cheddar or other cheeses, it's important to consider the balance of flavours. Smoked salmon has a strong, salty, and smoky flavour, so it pairs well with mild or sharp cheeses that can complement or contrast its intensity. Play around with different combinations to find your favourite pairings!

Frequently asked questions