Smoked Salmon Cheesecake
A luxurious smoked salmon cheesecake with a crisp Parmesan crust and creamy, tangy filling, perfect for elegant gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted ⓘ
- 5 ounces smoked salmon ⓘ
- 2 pounds cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley, divided ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- freshly ground black pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 cup sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and arrange a rack on the middle shelf.
- Spray a 9-inch spring-form pan with nonstick vegetable cooking spray.
- Place the bread crumbs and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese in the spring-form pan and toss to mix.
- Add melted butter and mix to blend.
- Chop the smoked salmon finely in a food processor fitted with the metal blade, or by hand.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan and set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like dill or tarragon alongside the chives or parsley. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency when mixing. If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko can work as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smoked salmon cheesecake with a dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh chives. It pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or some crackers for a delightful appetizer. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Crab Pasta Salad for a seafood-themed feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. For a firmer texture, you can also serve it cold, as the flavors meld beautifully after chilling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake contains roughly 329 calories, with 7g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1007mg per serving (44% 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 a different type of fish in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute smoked trout or even canned tuna for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fish is well-drained and finely chopped to maintain the texture of the cheesecake.
How can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice when serving. Just add toppings right before serving for the best presentation.
Is it possible to freeze smoked salmon cheesecake?
Freezing smoked salmon cheesecake is not recommended due to the texture changes in the cream cheese. However, you can keep it in the fridge for a few days, which can enhance the flavors. Just ensure it's covered well to prevent drying out.
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).