Smoked Salmon Grazing Board

I LOVE Salmon. Check out this super savory Smoked Salmon Grazing Board I made for the Food52 & Pinterest Golden Recipe Contest 2022 where I placed in the top 200 finalists for recipe submissions. Didn't win but I did get to eat THIS SOOOOOOOOO....

SMOKED SALMON GRAZING BOARD

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INGREDIENTS

1 Smoked Salmon Filet

1 Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Spread

1 Boursin Garlic & Fine Herb cheese

1 cup Roasted Brussels Sprouts

2 cups Arugula

2 ripe Avocados, sliced

1 cup Red Grapes, washed and stemmed

1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, washed

Truff Hot Sauce (for drizzling)

1/2 cup Cashews, toasted

1/4 cup Black Garlic Spread

Honey (for drizzling)

Assorted Crackers

Cornichons (small pickles)

DIRECTIONS

Prepare the Smoked Salmon:

• Lay the smoked salmon filet on a large platter, letting it drape elegantly.

Creamy Cheese Delight:

• Place the Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Spread and Boursin Garlic & Fine Herb cheese on the platter alongside the smoked salmon. These creamy spreads will complement the salmon perfectly.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• Arrange the roasted Brussels sprouts around the platter. They add a delightful crunch and a savory touch.

Green Goodness:

• Scatter the arugula over the platter, creating a bed of greens. The peppery arugula balances the richness of the salmon and cheeses.

Avocado Slices:

• Arrange the sliced avocados gracefully on the board, adding a creamy and buttery element.

Fresh Fruits:

• Distribute the red grapes and cherry tomatoes around the platter for a burst of color and freshness.

Flavor Enhancers:

• Place a bottle of Truff Hot Sauce on the board, allowing guests to add a touch of heat to their salmon or cheese if desired.

Nutty Crunch:

• Sprinkle the toasted cashews over the platter. They provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Black Garlic

• Offer the black garlic spread in a small bowl or dish. It adds a unique and umami-rich flavor to the board.

Sweet Drizzle:

• Drizzle honey over the entire board for a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the salty salmon and cheeses.

Crackers and Cornichons:

• Surround the board with an assortment of crackers for guests to use as a base for their creations. Place a bowl of cornichons for a tangy and crunchy addition.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Present your Smoked Salmon Grazing Board at room temperature and encourage your guests to mix and match the ingredients to create their perfect bites.

Smoked salmon is a popular and versatile seafood product that is enjoyed around the world. It's known for its rich, smoky flavor and tender, flaky texture. Here's more information about smoked salmon:

1. Smoking Process: Smoked salmon is typically made from fresh salmon fillets that are cured and then cold-smoked or hot-smoked. The smoking process infuses the salmon with a smoky flavor while preserving it.

2. Types of Smoked Salmon:

• Cold-Smoked Salmon: This method involves smoking salmon at a lower temperature, usually below 85°F (29°C), for an extended period. It results in a delicate texture and a milder smoky flavor. Cold-smoked salmon is often thinly sliced and is commonly used in dishes like sushi, bagels with cream cheese, or as an appetizer.

• Hot-Smoked Salmon: Hot-smoked salmon is smoked at a higher temperature, typically around 145-160°F (63-71°C). This method cooks the salmon as it smokes, resulting in a firmer texture and a stronger smoky flavor. Hot-smoked salmon is often flaked and used in salads, pastas, or served as a main course.

3. Varieties:

• Atlantic Salmon: Atlantic salmon is one of the most commonly used species for smoked salmon production due to its abundant availability and mild flavor.

• Pacific Salmon: Varieties such as sockeye, coho, or king salmon are also popular choices for smoked salmon, each with its unique flavor profile.

4. Curing: Before smoking, salmon is typically cured with a mixture of salt and sometimes sugar or other seasonings. The curing process helps preserve the salmon and adds flavor.

5. Flavor Variations: Smoked salmon can be found in various flavor profiles, including:

• Traditional: Simply smoked with salt for a classic flavor.

• Peppered: Coated with cracked black pepper for a slightly spicy kick.

• Dill-Cured: Infused with dill, which imparts a refreshing herbal note.

• Honey-Smoked: Sweetened with honey for a touch of sweetness.

6. Culinary Uses:

• Smoked salmon is a popular ingredient in a wide range of dishes, including sandwiches, bagels with cream cheese, omelets, quiches, and salads.

• It is often used as an elegant appetizer, served on crackers or crostini with cream cheese and garnishes like capers, red onion, and lemon.

• Hot-smoked salmon can be flaked and added to pasta dishes, scrambled eggs, or used as a topping for pizzas.

• Smoked salmon can also be used creatively in sushi and sushi rolls.

7. Nutritional Benefits: Smoked salmon is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and B vitamins. It is a healthier option compared to some other processed meats.

8. Storage: Smoked salmon should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days of opening. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Overall, smoked salmon is a versatile and flavorful seafood product that can elevate a wide range of dishes and is a favorite choice for both casual and upscale dining. Its delicious taste and elegant presentation make it a popular addition to many culinary creations and grazing boards.

So yummy!