Salmon With Creme-Fraiche And Herb Sauce
Creamy smoked salmon served on mini-pumpernickel with a fresh herb and lemon creme fraiche sauce, perfect for elegant appetizers or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creme fraiche ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon snipped fresh dill ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon snipped chives ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 squares mini-pumpernickel bread ⓘ
- 4 ounces smoked salmon ⓘ
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the creme fraiche, chopped parsley, snipped dill, snipped chives, chopped tarragon leaves, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to make the herb sauce.
- Place each mini-pumpernickel bread square on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous spoonful of the herb creme fraiche sauce on each bread square.
- Top each with a slice of smoked salmon.
- Garnish with dill fronds and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter herb sauce, consider using Greek yogurt instead of creme fraiche. Fresh herbs like dill and tarragon can be swapped for others, such as basil or cilantro, depending on your preference. If you're short on time, prepared horseradish can add a kick to the sauce. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as an appetizer for gatherings. Consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors. It also makes a delightful brunch item or can be served alongside a light salad or Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover herb sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, simply give it a quick stir before spreading it on the bread. Smoked salmon should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Avoid reheating as it is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon With Creme-Fraiche And Herb Sauce contains roughly 425 calories, with 24g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (736% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (121% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1917mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute mini-pumpernickel with other bread types like rye, baguette, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure the bread can hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Is there a way to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the dish right before serving to keep the bread crisp and the salmon fresh.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Consider serving it with a light salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes, or alongside a platter of olives and cheeses for a more substantial spread. It pairs beautifully with tuna tart or grilled tuna with papaya sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).