Sep 03 2026

Smoked Salmon Recipe

Time25m
Serves4

Make Smoked Salmon Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Smoked salmon & finishing

Method

Smoked salmon & finishing

  1. 1

    Prepare salmon

    Pat the smoked salmon dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, peel away any remaining skin and trim ragged edges. Place the fillet on a cutting board.

  2. 2

    Portion

    Slice the salmon into 8 equal thin slices (about 1–1.5 oz per slice) or flake gently into large pieces if you prefer a rustic presentation.

  3. 3

    Dress

    Place the sliced or flaked salmon into a shallow bowl. Drizzle with 2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil, squeeze the juice of half the lemon over the fish, add the lemon zest, and sprinkle 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently with fingers or a spoon so the salmon is evenly coated. Fold in 2 tbs chopped fresh dill, reserving a little for garnish.

Accompaniment: dill crème fraîche

  1. 4

    Make dill crème fraîche

    In a medium bowl combine 1 cup crème fraîche, 2 tsp mayonnaise, 2 tbs finely chopped fresh dill, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1 tbsp chopped capers (if using). Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust salt, lemon, or dill as desired.

  2. 5

    Chill (optional)

    Cover and refrigerate the sauce for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld, or serve immediately if short on time.

To serve

  1. 6

    Assemble

    Arrange bread slices or crackers on a platter. Spoon a dollop (about 1 tbs) of dill crème fraîche onto each piece, then top with a slice or portion of the dressed smoked salmon.

  2. 7

    Garnish

    Scatter mixed microgreens or baby leaves around the platter, top each salmon portion with a few thin red onion slices, a small sprig of dill, and a crack of black pepper. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

  3. 8

    Storage

    Leftover dressed smoked salmon will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Crème fraîche dip will keep up to 3 days. Do not freeze.

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