Smoked Salmon's Cheesy Companions: Finding The Perfect Pair

Smoked salmon is a versatile delicacy that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, and one of the most popular combinations is smoked salmon and cheese. The right cheese can complement the smoky flavour of the salmon, creating a delicious and indulgent culinary experience. So, what cheese goes well with smoked salmon? The answer depends on your personal preference and the specific type of smoked salmon you're using. Cold-smoked salmon, known for its delicate and subtle flavour, pairs well with mild and soft cheeses such as goat cheese, brie, labneh, or feta. On the other hand, hot-smoked salmon, which has a stronger and more robust flavour, can stand up to sharper cheeses like cheddar or gouda. For a truly decadent treat, try gravlax, a cured salmon that is perfect with cream cheese or blue cheese.

Soft cheeses like feta, goat cheese, labneh, brie, or cream cheese

Feta, a briny, tangy cheese, can be a great addition to a smoked salmon sandwich or toast. To make it more spreadable, you can mix it with some extra virgin olive oil. This combination offers a bold and fresh Mediterranean twist to the classic lox and bagel.

Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is another mild and creamy option that pairs well with smoked salmon. It is a popular choice in Oregon, a state known for its high-quality cheeses.

Labneh, a soft cheese made from strained yoghurt, can be a delicious spread on toast or crackers topped with smoked salmon. It adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour to your dish.

Brie, a soft-ripened cow's milk cheese, is also an excellent choice to accompany smoked salmon. It has a mild and creamy flavour that won't overwhelm the fish. For a more intense flavour, you can opt for a smoked or aged brie.

Cream cheese is a classic and popular choice to pair with smoked salmon. It has a mild flavour and a creamy texture that complements the fish well. You can season it with herbs, spices, or citrus juices like lemon to enhance the flavour.

When creating a smoked salmon charcuterie board, it is recommended to include at least three different types of cheese to build variety. Soft cheeses like those mentioned above are perfect for pairing with smoked salmon and providing a range of flavours for your guests to enjoy.

Charcuterie board cheeses: gouda, cheddar, blue cheese, etc

Charcuterie boards are a fun and easy way to entertain guests. They are simple to put together, requiring no cooking, and can be prepared ahead of time. A typical charcuterie board includes a variety of cheese, cured meats, and some sort of bread or crackers.

When selecting cheeses for a charcuterie board, it is best to choose 3-4 different kinds, including a mix of soft and firm, bold and mild-flavoured cheeses. Here are some ideas for cheeses to include on your charcuterie board, focusing on gouda, cheddar, and blue cheese, as well as some other options:

Gouda

Gouda is a firm cheese with a delicate, smoky flavour. It is a good choice for a charcuterie board, especially when paired with cured meats like smoked salmon. Gouda can be purchased in different ages, from young and mild to aged and sharp. Aged gouda, in particular, pairs well with honey. Smoked gouda is also available and can add a unique flavour to the board, although some people find the taste overpowering.

Cheddar

Cheddar is a sharp and firm cheese that pairs well with smoked salmon. It comes in a variety of flavours, from mild to extra sharp, and can add a nice contrast to the other cheeses on the board. Cheddar can also be smoked, which adds a stronger flavour that complements the smokiness of the salmon.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a bold and flavourful cheese that can be a great addition to a charcuterie board. It pairs well with honey, which can be drizzled on top, and other sweet elements like fruit or chocolate. Blue cheese is a strong flavour, so a small amount can go a long way.

Other Cheeses

In addition to gouda, cheddar, and blue cheese, there are several other cheeses that can complement smoked salmon:

• Brie: a soft and creamy cheese that goes well with the salty, smoky flavour of salmon.
• Goat Cheese: a mild and creamy cheese that is spreadable and can be paired with honey or jam.
• Cream Cheese: a classic pairing with smoked salmon, especially when seasoned with dill or other herbs.
• Manchego: a firm and salty cheese with a pleasant peppery edge.
• Havarti: a semi-soft, mild, and creamy cheese.

When creating a charcuterie board, it is important to consider the variety of flavours and textures. Include a mix of soft, medium-firm, and hard cheeses, and don't be afraid to experiment with new cheeses. You can also add extras like cured meats, crackers, bread, fruits, nuts, and dips to create a well-rounded and visually appealing board.

Spreads: hummus, olive paste, creme fraiche with dill

Smoked salmon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to pasta. When it comes to spreads that complement smoked salmon, here are some options to consider:

Hummus

Hummus is a popular Mediterranean spread made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. It has a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavour that can complement the smokiness of the salmon. Consider serving hummus with smoked salmon on a sandwich or wrap, or as a dip with crackers or crudites on the side.

Olive Paste

Olive paste, also known as tapenade, is made from olives, olive oil, and various herbs and spices. It has a strong, briny flavour that can stand up to the taste of smoked salmon. Olive paste can be spread on crackers or bread and topped with smoked salmon for a tasty appetizer or light meal. It can also be used as a condiment or dip for other dishes featuring smoked salmon.

Creme Fraiche with Dill

Creme fraiche is a rich, tangy cream that pairs well with smoked salmon. Adding dill to creme fraiche enhances its flavour and makes it even more complementary to smoked salmon. This combination is often used in Scandinavian cuisine and can be served as a spread or dip for crackers, bread, or blinis. It can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes or as a sauce for fish dishes. To make this spread, simply mix together creme fraiche, finely chopped dill, lemon juice, and salt to taste.

Feta

Feta cheese is a briny, tangy cheese that can be used as a spread or topping for smoked salmon dishes. Its strong flavour and crumbly texture add interest and contrast to the smooth, smoky fish. To use feta as a spread, simply mash it with a fork and mix in some extra virgin olive oil until it reaches a spreadable consistency. This combination is a popular choice for smoked salmon sandwiches or toasts, providing a bold and satisfying flavour profile.

Crackers: whole-grain, water, rye, gluten-free, or buttered

When it comes to crackers, there are several types that work well with smoked salmon, each offering a unique taste and texture experience. Here are some options to consider:

Whole-grain crackers

Whole-grain crackers offer a subtle and nutty flavour that pairs well with smoked salmon. They provide a nice contrast to the salty and savoury notes of the fish, making for an enjoyable taste experience.

Water crackers

Water crackers are a classic choice that won't overpower the delicate flavour of smoked salmon. They have a neutral flavour and a crisp texture, making them a versatile base for a variety of toppings.

Rye crackers

If you're looking for a heartier option with a bit more crunch, rye crackers are an excellent choice. The robust texture and slightly sweet flavour of rye crackers complement the smokiness of the salmon perfectly.

Gluten-free crackers

Including gluten-free crackers on your charcuterie board is a thoughtful touch, ensuring that guests with gluten intolerances or allergies can also enjoy the delicious combination of smoked salmon and crackers.

Buttered crackers

Buttered crackers add a rich, buttery flavour and a tender texture to your charcuterie board. The butter can also help to enhance the flavour of the smoked salmon, creating a decadent and indulgent taste experience.

When assembling your smoked salmon charcuterie board, feel free to get creative and experiment with different types of crackers to find the perfect combination of flavours and textures that suit your taste preferences.

Breads: toast, bagels, sourdough, breadsticks, etc

Breads are a crucial component of any charcuterie board, and there are several options to choose from when it comes to smoked salmon.

Toast

A simple yet effective choice, toast is a versatile option that can be used as a base for a variety of toppings. It can be cut into small pieces to make it more finger-food friendly.

Bagels

Bagels are a classic choice, especially when paired with cream cheese and smoked salmon. They add a nice crunch to the meal and are a perfect match for most spreads.

Sourdough

Sourdough bread offers a tangy flavour and a chewy texture that can complement the smokiness of the salmon. It can be toasted or served plain, providing a heartier option for your charcuterie board.

Breadsticks

Breadsticks provide a similar crunch factor to bagels but with a more elongated shape, making them ideal for dipping or spreading. They can be plain or seasoned with herbs or spices for added flavour.

When creating a smoked salmon charcuterie board, it is recommended to choose a variety of breads to add interest and texture to the board. This can include a mix of different types of bread, such as whole wheat, rye, or gluten-free options, to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Frequently asked questions