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Easy Elegant Smoked Salmon Canapés with Dill Cream Cheese

smoked salmon canapés - featured image

Delicate smoked salmon paired with herbaceous dill cream cheese spread on crisp bread rounds, perfect for quick and elegant party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained (optional)
  • 12 small slices or rounds of bagels or rye bread (about 2 inches thick)
  • Olive oil for brushing bread (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whip 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with a whisk or fork until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Mix gently until combined. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Fold in 2 tablespoons of drained capers if using.
  3. Slice bread into approximately 12 rounds or small rectangles about 2 inches thick. For toasted bread, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), brush slices lightly with olive oil, and toast for 7-10 minutes until golden and crisp but still tender inside.
  4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of dill cream cheese mixture evenly over each bread slice.
  5. Top each with approximately 1 ounce (28 grams) of smoked salmon, arranging neatly.
  6. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill or an extra caper if desired. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing. Use fresh dill for best flavor. Toast bread lightly to avoid sogginess. Add salmon just before serving to keep bread crisp. Dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free bread can be used for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon, canapés, dill cream cheese, party appetizers, easy appetizers, elegant snacks, quick recipes