What Tastes Good with Smoked Salmon? 15 Delicious Pairings

Smoked salmon is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Its rich, smokey flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients and can be incorporated into appetizers, main courses, and even desserts. When cooking with smoked salmon, it’s important to choose accompaniments that complement and enhance its natural flavors. Here are 15 delicious options for what tastes good with smoked salmon.

Creamy and Tangy Dairy

Creamy, tangy dairy products pair excellently with smoked salmon’s richness. Popular choices include:

• Cream cheese – A smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel is a classic combo. Try mixing in fresh herbs and lemon for extra flavor

• Sour cream – Dollops of cool, tangy sour cream contrast smoked salmon wonderfully. It’s great in dips, spreads, and topping blini.

• Mascarpone – The velvety texture and mild sweetness of mascarpone complements smoked salmon for a refined flavor Use in sauces or spreads

• Goat cheese – The sharp, tangy flavor of goat cheese stands up well to smoked salmon. Crumble over salads or toast for a perfect match.

• Ricotta – Blend ricotta with herbs and seasonings to make easy smoked salmon crostini toppings and dips.

• Greek yogurt – Non-fat Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess and protein punch when paired with smoked salmon.

Fresh Vegetables

The crisp, bright flavors of fresh vegetables go great with smoked salmon’s richness. Enjoy smoked salmon with:

• Cucumbers – Cool, crunchy cucumber slices or relish provide texture and freshness.

• Tomatoes – Sweet cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted tomatoes add rich flavor.

• Asparagus – Grilled or roasted asparagus spears have a delightful earthiness.

• Spinach – Pair smoked salmon with spinach salads, frittatas, or pastas for bold flavor.

• Beets – Roasted beets offer a sweet, earthy counterpoint to the smoked salmon.

• Radishes – Quick-pickled radish slices provide tangy crunch alongside smoked salmon.

Zesty Citrus

Bright, acidic citrus juices and zest cut through smoked salmon’s richness for a refreshing flavor combo. Ideal choices include:

• Lemons – A squeeze of lemon is a classic smoked salmon accompaniment. Preserve moisture with lemon slices.

• Limes – Lime juice adds tangy brightness in salsas, salad dressings, rice, or ceviche with smoked salmon.

• Oranges – Orange segments lend a sweet brightness and play nicely with the smokiness.

• Grapefruit – Ruby red grapefruit has a nice bitter edge to balance the salmon.

Herbs and Spices

A variety of fresh herbs, spices, and aromatic ingredients amp up the flavor of smoked salmon:

• Dill – This traditional pairing imparts a clean, refreshing note. Chop and sprinkle over salmon.

• Capers – Briny capers cut through smoked salmon’s fattiness with their sharp saltiness.

• Shallots – Minced shallots lend a punch of aromatic flavor when sauteed with salmon.

• Chives – Delicate chives add oniony flavor without overpowering the salmon.

• Horseradish – Freshly grated horseradish root has sinus-clearing heat and spice.

• Black pepper – A grind of black peppercorn contributes a little heat and bitterness.

• Dijon mustard – The tanginess of Dijon mustard complements smoked salmon wonderfully.

Hearty Grains

Smoked salmon pairs nicely with a variety of grains that add satisfying, toothsome textures:

• Rice – Flaky smoked salmon over creamy risotto or lemon-infused rice creates flavorful entrees.

• Quinoa – Toasted quinoa makes a protein-packed salad pairing for smoked salmon.

• Barley – Nutty, chewy barley complements smoked salmon in robust salads or pilafs.

• Couscous – Light, fluffy couscous combines well with smoked salmon in a refreshing Moroccan-style salad.

• Bread – Toast or crackers serve as perfect vehicles for smoked salmon, cream cheese, and other toppings.

Other Great Pairings

Don’t overlook sweet and savory ingredients that also taste delicious with smoked salmon:

• Mango salsa – The tropical sweetness pairs surprisingly well with smoked salmon’s brininess.

• Watermelon – Refreshing watermelon complements the richness of smoked salmon for a unique combo.

• Honey – Drizzle or whip honey into sauces, salad dressings, or glazes for salmon.

• Pesto – Basil pesto’s herbaceous quality works nicely with smoked salmon’s flavor.

• Potatoes – Creamy mashed or crispy roasted potatoes round out smoked salmon meals.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to smoking salmon pairings! From bright citrus to earthy beets, the flavors and textures that complement this ingredient are highly varied. Getting creative with your smoked salmon accompaniments can lead to memorable new dishes.

Smoked salmon is a delicious and versatile food that pairs well with a variety of condiments, including cream cheese, dill, capers, red onion, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.