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Perfect Smoked Salmon Platter Recipe for Easy Elegant Entertaining Ideas

smoked salmon platter - featured image

An elegant and easy-to-assemble smoked salmon platter featuring silky smoked salmon, creamy dill cream cheese, fresh vegetables, and savory accents, perfect for entertaining guests or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) thinly sliced smoked salmon
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced or cut into rounds
  • 1 cup (about 150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (optional)
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 cups crackers or baguette slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine 4 ounces (115 grams) of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the cream cheese feels too stiff, stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.
  2. Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice 1 small red onion and 1 medium cucumber. Halve 1 cup (about 150 grams) of cherry tomatoes. Take your time here—thin, even slices make the platter look more polished.
  3. Arrange the Smoked Salmon: Lay out 8 ounces (225 grams) of thinly sliced smoked salmon on your wooden board or platter. Fold or roll some slices for visual interest.
  4. Add the Cream Cheese Dollops: Using a small spoon or spreader, place small dollops of the dill cream cheese around the salmon. Aim for a balanced look, spacing them evenly.
  5. Scatter Capers and Vegetables: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of drained capers over the platter, then add the sliced red onions, cucumber rounds, and cherry tomato halves in clusters or lines next to the salmon.
  6. Garnish and Season: Add a few fresh dill sprigs for garnish, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of everything bagel seasoning if using, and grind fresh black pepper over the top. Place lemon wedges around the edges for easy squeezing.
  7. Serve with Crackers or Bread: Arrange 1-2 cups of your favorite crackers or thinly sliced baguette around the platter or on a separate plate.

Notes

Use the freshest smoked salmon available for best flavor. Thinly slice vegetables for a polished look. Prepare cream cheese spread ahead and assemble platter just before serving to keep freshness. Optional additions include smoked paprika or horseradish in cream cheese for extra kick. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or avocado mash. For gluten-free, serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon platter, elegant appetizer, easy entertaining, cream cheese spread, fresh dill, capers, quick appetizer, brunch recipe