Best Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board for Brunch

Do you know what makes this the Best Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board for Brunch? It’s SO easy! I absolutely love making this as a fun appetizer or a simple alternative to sushi!

smoked salmon charcuterie board on a floral tablecloth and neutral placemat with a neutral cloth napkin at the side

One of my most favorite foods is sushi. I know I’m not alone in this because we had multiple restaurants that served sushi when I lived near Pittsburgh, and they were always busy.

I have made a few successful attempts at making homemade sushi, albeit easy ones like California rolls or Philadelphia rolls.

But making sushi is a process, for sure. And definitely time consuming. Which is why I was so excited when I heard about using smoked salmon in a charcuterie board.

Charcuterie is one of my love languages. It’s the perfect combination of savory and crunchy in appetizer form. It takes cheese boards to a whole new level. Did I mention cheese is one of my love languages too?

Is there anything cozier than a cute assortment of finger foods to share with your closest family and friends? I think not.

Is Smoked Salmon Good On a Charcuterie Board?

For a unique twist on charcuterie, try using seafood, like smoked salmon, as a focal point.

Arranging smoked salmon is so quick and easy! The salmon I used was already sliced and ready to eat.

Smoked salmon is a popular choice for a charcuterie board as it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.

Not only does it look visually appealing, but it also offers a delicious and savory flavor that complements other cheeses and snacks on the board.

Smoked salmon can be paired with cream cheese, capers, red onions, and other toppings for the perfect bite. It is also a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any charcuterie spread.

So, the answer is yes, smoked salmon is definitely good on a charcuterie board.

Supplies for Smoked Salmon charcuterie board. Left to right: smoked salmon slices in a package that says Latitude 45, Havarti cheese, Mini pickles, Philadelphia whipped cream cheese, Sweet red pickled onion, knife beside cucumber on cutting board

What is the Best Smoked Salmon for Charcuterie?

Finding the best smoked salmon for charcuterie can be a daunting task, as there are many options available in the market.

It’s essential to look for high-quality salmon that is well-aged with a delicate balance of salt, smoke, and sweetness to complement the other items on the charcuterie board.

Wild-caught salmon is generally considered superior as it has a better texture and flavor than farmed salmon.

A great way to ensure you get the right kind of smoked salmon is to do some research and try different brands until you find the one that suits your taste and preferences.

The smoked salmon I used for my charcuterie board is the Latitude 45 brand pictured above, which I purchased from Walmart.

Ingredients You Will Need

To get started making this charcuterie, you’ll first want to gather all your ingredients first.

Here is what you’ll need:

4 oz. package

Sliced Smoked Salmon (I used this brand)

1 bag

Bagels (any brand or flavor is fine; I used both Plain & Everything style)

8 oz. block

Havarti Cheese

1/4 lb.

Emmental Swiss Cheese, Deli Sliced

(any mild cheese will work)

1

Cucumber

1

Lemon

1 jar

Sweet Red Onion Strips

1 jar

Kosher Dill Petite Pickles

1 jar

Non-Pareil Capers

1 jar

Everything Bagel Seasoning

1 bunch

Fresh Dill Sprigs

8 oz. tub

Philadelphia Original Whipped Cream Cheese Spread

Other herbs like Sage or Mint make great garnishes for your board too!

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather all of your ingredients, garnishes, a small serving bowl for cream cheese, serving utensils, a cutting board, knife, and charcuterie board.

Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board supplies

Step 2: First, slice the cucumber into uniform slices. Slice up a lemon in the same way. Divide bagels into wedges, about 1-2 inches in width. Cut Swiss cheese into small squares. Also slice Havarti cheese into thin slices, and then diagonally cut the thin slices long ways to form the long triangles. Scoop whipped cream cheese into a small bowl. I used a ramekin for this.

Smoked Salmon Charcuterie board supplies with cut cucumbers

Step 3: Next, take each slice of smoked salmon and roll it up in a slightly staggered fashion. Arrange these rolls in a variety of ways. You can line them up vertically, diagonally, or even in a wavy line formation. I like to place the salmon on the board first, then any cups with dip or accompanying food. This makes it so much easier to arrange sliced vegetables and cheese, as well as any extras such as pickles and garnishes.

cut havarti cheese for smoked salmon charcuterie board

Step 4: Be sure to get creative and have fun with it. One of my favorite aspects of charcuterie is the artistic aspect. The presentation is half of the fun. Above is how I cut the Havarti cheese and then layered it to add a little flair to the board. There are so many ways to easily dress up charcuterie with garnishes and creative ways of arranging the food.

cut bagels for smoked salmon charcuterie board

Step 3: Arrange your items on your board, fill in gaps with garnishes or other small items like petite pickles, capers, or sweet red onions for fun pops of color. And then, enjoy! To be safe, I would refrigerate the board items if not eaten within an hour of serving. Consume within 2-3 days of opening your package of smoked salmon.

( Break it down for me )

How Do You Serve Smoked Salmon On a Charcuterie Board?

Creating a Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board is an easy and elegant way to entertain guests or enjoy a delicious snack at home. This is even a great option for the holiday season!

Start by selecting a beautiful board or platter to arrange your ingredients. The best board for charcuterie tends to be a wooden board. Size depends entirely on how much you plan to serve. But really, any platter you have is a great starting point.

Then, choose your smoked salmon and slice it into small pieces or roll it up.

Add a variety of accompaniments, such as crackers, creamy cheese, fruits, and nuts. Arrange the items on the board in sections, creating a visually appealing display. Consider adding some fresh herbs for an extra touch of cozy.

Smoked salmon is a favorite dish among brunch lovers. It pairs perfectly with bagels, cream cheese, and other appetizing treats.

But, why limit yourself to just plain old smoked salmon when you can create the best smoked salmon charcuterie board for brunch? Here are some easy steps to help you create the ultimate smoked salmon charcuterie board that will leave your guests craving for more.

Select the Perfect Smoked Salmon

The first step in creating a delicious smoked salmon board is selecting the perfect smoked salmon.

Choose a good quality smoked salmon that is fresh and comes from a reputable source. Wild salmon is always my preferred choice, but that is not always readily available. It should be firm yet easy to slice, and the color should be vibrant to show that it’s fresh.

You should be able to locate smoked salmon at your local grocery store. I purchased mine from our local Walmart Supercenter.

Add Some Creamy Accompaniments

Adding some creamy accompaniments to your smoked salmon charcuterie board is a must. Accompaniments such as cream cheese, soft cheeses, and even sour cream make the perfect pairing.

You can add some freshly made guacamole, too, as it not only adds flavor but also provides a healthy touch. Lastly, to keep things interesting, you can add some hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, which provides a flavorful contrast to the fish.

I love to add some Everything Bagel seasoning to some of the cream cheese to add a little wow factor.

Incorporate Some Carbs

A smoked salmon appetizer platter isn’t complete without some crunchy elements.

You can’t go wrong with some crackers and breadsticks. A great choice is some toasted bagel slices in your favorite bagel variety or even bagel chips.

Another great crunchy alternative is crostini made from crunchy baguette slices.

Better yet, you could make your own homemade croutons for an extra touch of crunch that is sure to wow your guests.

Add Some Fresh Veggies

Fresh vegetables can add some great color and texture to your smoked salmon platter.

For instance, you can serve your board with some cucumber slices and sweet, chewy cherry tomatoes. These fresh veggies can balance out the texture of the fish while still providing a pop of color.

Include Some Fresh Fruit

Another great addition to your smoked salmon charcuterie board is fresh fruit.

Sliced oranges or grapefruit are acidic and tangy, providing balance to the richness of the smoked salmon. Side note: lemon rind or lemon zest makes a great and flavorful garnish.

On the other hand, berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries provide a juicy and sweet contrast.

Either way, both options provide a delightful sweetness that complements the salmon.

No Stress Charcuterie

Creating an epic smoked salmon charcuterie board for brunch doesn’t have to be complicated.

All it takes is selecting high-quality smoked salmon, pairing it with creamy accompaniments, adding some crunchy elements, including fresh vegetables, and finishing it off with fresh fruits for a beautiful presentation.

Charcuterie boards are a great alternative to standard appetizers when you need small bite ideas for a gathering or even just a family night.

Honestly, my kiddos love a charcuterie board as lunch sometimes when they just feel like snacking here and there.

With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious charcuterie board that will make your next gathering an unforgettable experience.


Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Does 1lb. of Smoked Salmon Serve?

The serving size of 1lb. of smoked salmon can vary depending on the occasion and how it is being served. As an appetizer or snack, a 1lb. portion can serve anywhere from 6 to 10 people. If it is being served as a main course or part of a larger meal, a 1lb. portion may only be enough to feed 2 to 4 people. It is important to consider the serving size and occasion when planning how much smoked salmon to buy for a gathering or meal.

Is Smoked Salmon Served Hot or Cold?

Smoked salmon can be served either hot or cold, depending on personal preference and the dish being prepared. Cold smoked salmon is typically served as a main ingredient in sandwiches, salads or as an appetizer with cream cheese and crackers. Hot smoked salmon, on the other hand, is often used in warm dishes such as pasta or served as a hot entrée. Both versions of smoked salmon offer a delicious and distinct flavor that can elevate any dish. Ultimately, it’s up to the chef or diner to decide which temperature they prefer for their smoked salmon.

What Cheese Goes With Smoked Salmon?

When it comes to pairing cheese with smoked salmon, there are a few options. One popular choice is cream cheese, which is often used as a spread on bagels with smoked salmon. Other options include goat cheese, brie, or even a sharp cheddar. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what flavors complement the smoked salmon. Experimentation is key in finding the perfect cheese pairing for your next salmon dish.

What Fruit Goes Best With Smoked Salmon?

Smoked salmon is a delicacy enjoyed by many for its distinct flavor and rich texture. Pairing it with fruit can enhance the flavor profile even further. The best fruit to pair with smoked salmon is typically citrus fruits such as lemon, lime or grapefruit. These fruits have a tangy and acidic taste that complements the smokey flavor of the salmon. Another fruit that goes well with smoked salmon is avocado. The creamy texture of the avocado balances out the salty and rich taste of the salmon. Other fruits that can also be paired with smoked salmon are apples, pears, and strawberries. The key is to find a fruit that offers a contrasting taste and adds another layer of flavor to the dish.

What Garnish Goes With a Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board?

Creating a visually appealing charcuterie board featuring smoked salmon is a perfect addition to any party, gathering, or special occasion. When it comes to garnishing the board, there are several options that perfectly complement the flavor and texture of smoked salmon. Classic garnishes include lemon wedges, capers, red onion slices, and fresh dill sprigs. Other great options to consider are thinly sliced cucumber, pickled vegetables, horseradish sauce, and cream cheese. Adding a mix of sweet and salty elements to the board, such as crackers, bread, and fruit, also enhances the overall taste and presentation. 

How Long Does Smoked Salmon Last in the Fridge?

If you’ve been wondering about the shelf life of smoked salmon that you’ve just bought, then this article will answer your question. Typically, smoked salmon can last up to two weeks in the fridge if it is sealed tightly in plastic wrap. However, the exact duration of its freshness depends on how long it was stored before you got it and the temperature of your fridge. If you want it to last longer, you can opt to freeze it, which can extend its shelf life up to six months. But keep in mind that the texture and taste may slightly alter after being frozen, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible.

How Can You Tell If Smoked Salmon Has Gone Bad?

When it comes to smoked salmon, it’s important to know when it has gone bad to avoid the risk of food poisoning. The first thing to check is the expiration date. If it has passed, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming it. You can also use your senses to determine if smoked salmon has gone bad. If it has a sour or ammonia-like smell, it’s likely spoiled. Similarly, if the color is dull or the texture is slimy, it’s also a sign that it has gone bad. In general, it’s best to consume smoked salmon within a few days of opening the package and to store it properly in the refrigerator.


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smoked salmon charcuterie board on a floral tablecloth and neutral placemat with a neutral cloth napkin at the side

Smoked Salmon Charcuterie Board

Yield: 2-4 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Delicious, melt in your mouth smoked salmon, paired with swiss and havarti cheeses, cucumber, cream cheese, and bagel wedges.

Ingredients

  • 4 oz package Smoked Salmon
  • 4 oz Havarti cheese
  • 0.25 lb Swiss Cheese
  • 8 oz tub Whipped Cream Cheese
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 cucumber
  • Classic Bagels (or any other variety you like)
  • fresh dill sprigs
  • Sweet Red Onion
  • Petite Kosher Dill Pickles
  • Non-Pareil Capers

Instructions

  1. Gather ingredients, a cutting board, a knife, small bowls for garnishes or cream cheese, serving utensils, a charcuterie board
  2. Prepare ingredients. Thinly slice both the cucumber and the lemon. Thinly slice the Havarti cheese and Swiss cheese. Roll up or slice the smoked salmon.
  3. Arrange salmon on the charcuterie board.
  4. Put cream cheese into a small bowl. Place onto the bowl onto the charcuterie board then begin to arrange other items. Lay out vegetables, citrus, capers, onions, and pickles. Garnish with fresh dill.
  5. Serve and enjoy! Return contents of the charcuterie board to the fridge if they have not been consumed within one hour of preparation.

Notes

Keep ingredients chilled until ready to serve.

Store ingredients in the refrigerator if not consumed within 1 hour of preparation.

For easy clean up, you can line your charcuterie board with parchment paper.

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