Cheese And Salmon: The Perfect Pairing

Salmon and cheese is a combination that divides opinion. Some people believe that cheese and seafood should never be mixed, while others enjoy the pairing. Smoked salmon is a popular choice for charcuterie boards, and it can be paired with a variety of cheeses, crackers, and other ingredients to create a unique and indulgent culinary experience.

Soft cheeses like goat's cheese, brie, or cream cheese

Cream cheese is a classic choice, often used in traditional pairings such as bagels with lox and cream cheese. It provides a neutral base that allows the flavour of the salmon to shine through. Cream cheese can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as sour cream and dill, to create a spreadable dip for salmon. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy a creamy, indulgent bite.

When creating a charcuterie board with salmon, having at least three different cheeses is recommended to build variety. Soft cheeses like goat's cheese, brie, or cream cheese are excellent choices to pair with smoked salmon. These cheeses offer a nice contrast in texture and flavour, enhancing the overall taste experience.

In addition to the type of cheese, it is important to choose a high-quality, sustainable salmon for the best results. This ensures that your dish not only tastes delicious but also has a pleasing texture and is ethically sourced.

By pairing soft cheeses like goat's cheese, brie, or cream cheese with salmon, you can create a range of appetisers, snacks, or brunch options that are both satisfying and elegant.

Hot-smoked salmon with sharp cheeses like cheddar

Hot-smoked salmon and sharp cheeses like cheddar are a match made in heaven. The intense flavour of hot-smoked salmon is a perfect complement to the sharpness of cheddar or gouda. This combination is a great way to add some extra depth of flavour to your charcuterie board, with the smokiness of the salmon and the tang of the cheese creating a truly indulgent experience.

When creating a charcuterie board, it's important to choose a variety of textures and flavours that will complement each other. For example, the melt-in-your-mouth texture of hot-smoked salmon goes well with the firmness of cheddar. You can also experiment with different types of crackers to add some crunch. Whole-grain crackers offer a subtle, nutty flavour, while rye crackers provide a hearty texture that pairs well with the smokiness of the salmon.

To elevate your charcuterie board, consider adding some creative touches to its arrangement. You can cut the cheese and salmon into geometric shapes and arrange them in a pattern, or separate them into small groups with decorative accents like fresh herbs or edible flowers. This not only makes the board aesthetically pleasing but also provides a vibrant and colourful spread for your guests to enjoy.

When choosing your ingredients, it's crucial to select high-quality, sustainable options. For salmon, look for one that is nutritious, flavourful, and sustainably sourced. Similarly, opt for a good-quality cheddar cheese to ensure the best taste experience. By taking the time to select the right ingredients and arrange them thoughtfully, you'll create a charcuterie board that not only tastes delicious but also looks exquisite.

Hot-smoked salmon and sharp cheddar cheese is a pairing that will surely impress your guests and offer them a unique culinary experience. Whether you're hosting a brunch, a dinner party, or any other event, this combination is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will leave your guests craving more. So, why not add some adventure to your next charcuterie board and indulge in the exquisite flavours of hot-smoked salmon and sharp cheddar?

Cold-smoked salmon with mild cheeses like goat cheese

Cold-smoked salmon is known for its delicate and subtle flavour, and it goes perfectly with mild cheeses like goat cheese. This combination can be a great addition to your charcuterie board, offering a unique and luxurious culinary experience.

Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is a soft and creamy cheese made from goat's milk. It has a mild and tangy flavour with a hint of sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for cold-smoked salmon. The smokiness of the salmon complements the sweetness of the goat cheese, creating a harmonious flavour profile.

When creating a charcuterie board with cold-smoked salmon and goat cheese, it's important to choose high-quality ingredients. Look for sustainable and nutritious salmon, preferably with a rich, smoky flavour. For the goat cheese, select a brand that is creamy and fresh, as this will provide the best texture and taste.

To elevate your charcuterie board, consider adding a variety of accompaniments that will enhance the flavours of the salmon and cheese. Fresh or dried fruits, such as sliced apples, pears, or berries, can add a touch of sweetness. Nuts, like toasted almonds or pecans, provide a crunchy contrast. You can also include different types of crackers or breads, such as water crackers or rye bread, for your guests to create their own bite-sized appetisers.

Additionally, don't be afraid to experiment with other ingredients to create unique flavour combinations. Drizzle your goat cheese with honey or top it with chopped herbs like chives or thyme for added depth. You can also incorporate different types of cheeses, such as brie or cream cheese, to offer a range of flavours and textures on your charcuterie board.

Remember, the key to a successful charcuterie board is balance and variety. Play around with different ingredients, textures, and flavours to create a spread that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. By combining cold-smoked salmon with mild cheeses like goat cheese and carefully selected accompaniments, you'll be sure to impress your guests and take their taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

Lox and bagels with cream cheese

There are many types of cheese that go well with salmon, especially cream cheese, which is considered a classic pairing with lox and bagels.

To elevate this classic, you could try adding some crunch and freshness with a topping of root vegetables. Thinly sliced carrot, beetroot, radish, and green onion, tossed in olive oil and lime juice, would complement the rich cream cheese and lox. Alternatively, you could try a different type of soft cheese, such as goat's cheese, labneh, or feta. Feta, in particular, can add a bold, salty twist, and can be made more spreadable by mixing it with olive oil.

For a more substantial meal, you could add some sliced hard-boiled egg, or even some sliced or cubed chicken or turkey. If you're preparing a larger spread, you could include traditional charcuterie board items such as salami, prosciutto, peppers, honey, nuts, and mustard, as well as a variety of crackers and breads.

Blue cheese with gravlax

Blue cheese is a popular choice to pair with gravlax, a type of cured salmon. Gravlax is salmon that has been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and fresh dill. Some recipes also incorporate ground spices such as coriander, fennel, and peppercorns. The curing process for gravlax typically takes between 24 and 48 hours, resulting in a silky texture.

When creating a charcuterie board featuring gravlax, it is essential to choose high-quality ingredients. In addition to the gravlax, a variety of crackers, such as whole-grain, water, or rye crackers, can be offered. As for cheeses, soft cheeses like cream cheese, Neufchatel, and brie are ideal, and a cheese spread such as creme fraiche with dill can add a delicious touch.

To elevate the board, consider including a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as sliced cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, and pomegranates. Herbs like dill, rosemary, and thyme can also be added for a pop of color and aroma. For a heartier option, hard-boiled eggs or sliced chicken can be included for extra protein.

When serving gravlax, it is recommended to slice it as thinly as possible. It can be served on rye toast, pumpernickel, or a bagel, with a schmear of cream cheese, fresh dill, and capers. Gravlax can also be paired with a mustard sauce made from Dijon mustard, ground mustard, sugar, white wine vinegar, olive oil, and fresh dill.

Frequently asked questions