Salmon Yule Log
A creamy, flavorful salmon log coated with crunchy pecans, perfect for elegant appetizers or holiday gatherings. The combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, lemon, and horseradish creates a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that appeal to seafood lovers and party hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and flake the salmon.
- In a bowl, mix the salmon with softened cream cheese, lemon juice, grated onion, horseradish, liquid smoke, and salt until well combined.
- Chill the mixture for 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
- Shape the mixture into a log shape.
- Chill the log for an additional 2 to 3 hours.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on wax paper.
- Roll the salmon log in the chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Chill until ready to serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or using whipped cream cheese. If you can't find liquid smoke, you can substitute with a dash of smoked paprika for a similar flavor. This log can also be made with canned tuna for a different twist, perfect for those who prefer alternatives in seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Salmon Yule Log with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. This dish pairs beautifully with a chilled white wine or sparkling beverage, making it an ideal addition to holiday gatherings and festive parties. For a complete meal, consider accompanying it with a light salad like Clam Mushroom Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy the salmon log at its best, serve it cold rather than reheating, as the texture and flavor are best preserved when chilled. If needed, you can slice and serve individual pieces directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Yule Log contains roughly 47 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1803mg per serving (78% 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 fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh salmon, but you'll need to cook and flake it first. Make sure it's fully cooked and cooled before mixing it with the cream cheese and other ingredients. This will give you a fresher taste and texture in your Salmon Yule Log.
How long should I chill the log before serving?
Chilling the log for at least 2 to 3 hours is ideal to allow the flavors to meld and for the log to firm up. If you have the time, chilling it overnight will enhance the taste even more, making it a perfect make-ahead option for your gatherings.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Salmon Yule Log can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the instructions, chill it overnight, and roll it in pecans before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for entertaining, as it allows you to focus on other dishes or guests on the day of your event.
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).