Smoked Nova Salmon Recipe

Prepare produce

Rinse the tomatoes and cucumber. Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. Peel the cucumber if desired and slice into 1/8–1/4-inch rounds on a slight diagonal for larger surface area. Pat slices dry with paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Arrange bread

Cut pumpernickel bread slices in half (diagonally or straight) if desired for bite-size pieces. Arrange bread slices on one side of a large platter in a single overlapping row or fan.

Arrange salmon and accompaniments

Lay smoked nova salmon slices in loose folds or overlapping ribbons on the center of the platter so they are easy to pick up with a fork. Place tomato and cucumber slices in small stacks or separate piles near the salmon. Scatter drained capers in a small dish or sprinkle a light scattering near the salmon so guests can add to their bites. Tuck sprigs of fresh dill around the salmon and place a halved lemon (or lemon wedges) on the platter for squeezing.

Toast bread (optional)

If you prefer warm or slightly crisp bread: lightly toast pumpernickel slices in a toaster oven or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes per side until just warmed and slightly crisp around the edges. Cool briefly before placing on the platter to avoid steam softening the bread.

Final seasoning and serve

Give the capers a final brief rinse and pat dry if very salty. Spoon the prepared horseradish sauce into a small bowl and place on the platter. Garnish the salmon with a few extra capers and a sprinkle of chopped chives or dill. Serve immediately with small forks, knives, and napkins so guests can build open-faced bites on pumpernickel with tomato, cucumber, and a dollop of horseradish sauce.

In a small bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.

Stir in prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice until evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust heat by adding more horseradish if desired (add in 1/2-tsp increments).

Fold in finely chopped chives, then season with salt and black pepper. Chill the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Give it a final stir before transferring to a serving bowl on the platter.