Smoked Salmon, Dill & Lemon Paté Recipe
Introduction
This smoked salmon, dill, and lemon paté is a quick and elegant starter that brings together creamy textures and fresh flavors. Perfect for entertaining or a simple treat, it pairs beautifully with toast or breadsticks.
Ingredients
- 150g smoked salmon (trimmings are fine)
- 200g tub soft cheese
- 1 tbsp crème fraîche (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Small bunch of dill or chives, chopped
- Breadsticks or granary toast, to serve
Instructions
- Step 1: If you are not using smoked salmon trimmings, chop the salmon into small pieces.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine the soft cheese, crème fraîche (if using), and lemon juice. Season generously with black pepper and blend until smooth.
- Step 3: Add the smoked salmon to the mixture and pulse a few times if you prefer a chunky paté, or blend longer for a smooth, pink consistency.
- Step 4: Stir the chopped dill or chives into the paté gently.
- Step 5: Spoon the paté into a large bowl or divide into smaller bowls. Serve with warm granary toast or breadsticks as an elegant starter or dip.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of horseradish or a dash of mustard to the mix.
- If you don’t have crème fraîche, you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Using fresh lemon juice will brighten the paté more than bottled lemon juice.
- Mix in capers or finely chopped red onion for extra texture and tang.
Storage
Store the smoked salmon paté in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can be warmed gently in a bowl set over hot water to take the chill off.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this paté ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated, then give it a good stir before serving.
Can I use other herbs besides dill or chives?
Absolutely. Fresh parsley, tarragon, or basil can work well, providing different flavor profiles to suit your taste.
Print
Smoked Salmon, Dill & Lemon Paté Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 as a starter or appetizer 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A creamy and flavorful smoked salmon paté infused with fresh dill and zesty lemon, perfect for serving as a sophisticated starter or a light snack with granary toast or crunchy breadsticks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 150g smoked salmon (trimmings are fine)
- 200g tub soft cheese
- 1 tbsp crème fraîche (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Small bunch of dill or chives, chopped
To Serve
- Breadsticks or granary toast
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: If you are not using smoked salmon trimmings, chop the smoked salmon into small pieces to help with even blending.
- Blend the base: Place the soft cheese, crème fraîche (if using), and lemon juice into a food processor. Season generously with black pepper, then blitz until the mixture is smooth and creamy to your liking.
- Add salmon: Add the smoked salmon to the processor and pulse a few times if you prefer the paté chunky, or blend more thoroughly if you want it smooth and uniformly pink.
- Mix in herbs: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and gently stir in the chopped dill or chives to evenly distribute the fresh flavor throughout the paté.
- Serve: Spoon the paté into a large serving bowl or divide it into smaller bowls. Serve immediately with warm granary toast or crisp breadsticks as a delicious starter or dip.
Notes
- Using smoked salmon trimmings makes this a great way to reduce waste and add flavor.
- Crème fraîche is optional but adds extra creaminess to the paté.
- Adjust the lemon juice amount if you prefer a more or less tangy flavor.
- Paté can be chilled for an hour before serving for a firmer texture and enhanced flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or chives depending on your preference for garnish and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Starter
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: smoked salmon paté, salmon dip, smoked salmon recipe, creamy salmon spread, dill lemon paté, easy starter, appetizer, no-cook recipe
