Smoked Salmon Log
A flavorful smoked salmon log with a creamy, tangy filling coated in crunchy pecans and fresh parsley. Perfect for entertaining, it offers a sophisticated blend of smoky, savory, and nutty flavors that appeal to seafood lovers and appetizer enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix drained salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, grated onion, prepared horseradish, liquid smoke, and salt together and chill.
- Form the mixture into a log shape.
- Roll or coat the log in chopped pecans and parsley mixture.
- Chill several hours before serving.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have liquid smoke, smoked paprika can be a good substitute for a similar flavor. You can also experiment with different types of nuts for rolling, such as walnuts or almonds. For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or capers to the mixture. This dish is a great addition to any seafood recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this smoked salmon log as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. Pair it with a selection of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even on a bed of mixed greens for a light meal. It also complements well with a chilled white wine or a refreshing glass of sparkling water. This dish pairs beautifully with Baked Flounder With Mushrooms for a seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them later, simply bring the log to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, as this enhances the flavors. Avoid freezing, as it can change the texture of the cream cheese and salmon.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoked Salmon Log contains roughly 64 calories, with 5g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 960mg per serving (42% 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 cooked salmon instead of canned. Just ensure it's fully cooked and flaked before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will give you a fresher taste, but may result in a slightly different texture. Adjust seasonings to taste as fresh salmon can vary in flavor.
How can I make this dish spicy?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also substitute the prepared horseradish with a spicier variety or add cayenne pepper to taste. Just be sure to balance the spice with the cream cheese to maintain a creamy texture.
What can I serve with the smoked salmon log?
This log pairs excellently with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, sliced cucumbers, or a platter of assorted crackers. For a more substantial meal, you can serve it alongside Shrimp-Mushroom Casserole for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
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).