5 Best Salmon Appetizer Recipes
Healthy, delicious, and effortlessly elegant, even the most novice chef knows that salmon is a trustworthy choice in the kitchen. It can be seamlessly integrated into most menus with a little creativity, and it’s this versatility that has made it a staple for so many.
Whether you’re planning the menu for your next dinner party, trying to come up with something to bring to a friend’s gathering, or just want to add a special touch to your next date night in, we have a wide array of salmon appetizers that are perfect for any occasion. And the best part? Even inexperienced chefs can follow along with ease.
So pick up a salmon filet, head into the kitchen, and get ready to experiment with some of our favorite salmon appetizer recipes. They’re ideal to have in your cooking repertoire—and as a bonus, they pair beautifully with some of your favorite Jordan wines.
The Best Salmon Appetizer Recipes
The versatility of salmon allows it to be served in a number of different ways. From smoked salmon to baked salmon and beyond, there are so many various ways to prepare salmon appetizers, you’re certain to find a recipe that you’ll fall in love with.
Here are a few of our favorite salmon appetizer recipes. Which one are you going to try first?
Smoked Salmon Toast
There’s nothing better than an elevated take on a classic, and our Smoked Salmon Toast recipe is just that. If you love a traditional lox and shmear, you’ll love this wine country twist, featuring fresh sourdough, mascarpone, a touch of garlic, and a generous serving of smoked salmon. The true cherry on top? Jordan Chef’s Reserve Caviar, which ties the appetizer together with an elegant touch.
Pair with a glass of Jordan Cuvée by Champagne AR Lenoble for a refined finish.
Salmon Rillettes
Impress your guests by serving gourmet Salmon Rillettes. Flaky poached salmon is made all the more delicious when dressed with a coriander vinaigrette, crafted from vinegar, coriander, mustard seeds, mustard, honey, shallot, lemon thyme leaves, hazelnut, and extra virgin olive oil. You’ll then garnish the rillettes with watercress, grapefruit, golden trout roe, pickled red onion, and edible flowers, for a finished product that doesn’t just taste incredible but is also beautifully aesthetically pleasing.
The bright acidity of our Salmon Rillettes is best enjoyed with a glass of Jordan Chardonnay.
Mini Baked Salmon Cakes
Looking for a salmon appetizer that packs a punch? Mini Baked Salmon Cakes are a hearty choice, perfect for an appetizer-only event. They’re full of protein and will keep your guests satisfied without filling them up too much. Crispy and savory, salmon cakes are the comfort food you’ll find yourself craving, and when served with spicy sriracha lemon aioli, their vibrant flavor is truly unmatched.
We love the pairing of Jordan Chardonnay with Mini Baked Salmon Cakes, as the complementary flavors allow both to sing.
Salmon Paillard
For a bright, elegant dish that sings of warm, sunny days, Salmon Paillard is the perfect appetizer choice. Thinly slice and pound out salmon, seasoning the slices with salt and white pepper before drizzling with a citrus vinaigrette, crafted with Jordan Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Garnish with arugula and trout roe for a fresh, beautiful appetizer your guests are sure to love.
This light appetizer pairs beautifully with a glass of Jordan Cuvée by Champagne AR Lenoble.
Salmon Croquettes
A classic salmon appetizer, you can’t go wrong serving Salmon Croquettes. Made with minimal breading, this recipe allows the salmon to truly shine. You’ll season the salmon with Old Bay, lemon juice, scallions, and onions for a rich, vibrant flavor. Pro tip: when making Salmon Croquettes, it is best to allow the salmon patties to chill overnight in order for them to properly hold together when cooked in the hot skillet.
For the perfect finishing touch, serve your Salmon Croquettes alongside a bottle of Jordan Chardonnay.
Enjoy the Perfect Wine and Salmon Appetizer Pairings
Did you know that white wine pairs perfectly with salmon? Light and fresh, white wine enhances the flavor of salmon without overwhelming it, making it the ideal pairing option. Depending on the salmon dish, you may want to serve a more acidic white wine that cuts through the creaminess of your appetizer—or perhaps a creamier white wine is exactly what you need to enhance your dish’s flavor.
Either way, both you and your guests will love this selection of salmon appetizers. Integrate them into your next dinner party or event and watch them become a hit—or simply whip up a batch for yourself the next time you have a quiet evening at home. You don’t have to share—we won’t tell.
