What Sauces Go With Smoked Salmon? (Tasty Pairings)

ByViolet ParkerEditorial Policy

Looking to add some extra flavour to your brunch game?

Look no further than the saucy side of things!

While smoked salmon is delicious on its own, a good sauce can take it to a whole new level of savoury goodness.

From creamy dill sauce to bright and zesty chimchurri, we’re about to dive into the perfect pairings for your next seafood meal… 

What Sauces Go With Smoked Salmon? 

Some of the best sauces for smoked salmon include: 

  • Dill sauce
  • Honey mustard
  • Caper sauce
  • Chimichurri
  • Tarragon
  • Bearnaise

Read on for more details and preparation tips… 

Classic Sauces for Smoked Salmon

Dill Sauce

Dill sauce is the quintessential partner for smoked salmon.

Combining the fresh, aromatic flavour of dill with the creamy smoothness of sour cream or yoghurt creates a delightful accompaniment.

To make the sauce, simply mix together finely chopped dill, sour cream or yoghurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Adjust the acidity with more lemon juice to your liking, and your sauce is ready to elevate your smoked salmon dish.

Honey Mustard Sauce

If you’re craving something tangy and sweet to serve with your smoked salmon, look no further than honey mustard sauce.

To create this delicious balance of flavours, whisk together whole grain mustard, honey, a touch of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.

The result is a luscious, zesty sauce that perfectly complements the smokiness of the salmon.

Caper Sauce

Caper sauce is a classic option that brings a salty and briny flavour to your smoked salmon.

A simple yet elegant sour cream-caper sauce can be made by combining sour cream, chopped capers, a pinch of ground black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice.

This sauce provides a delicious contrast to the richness of the salmon.

Chimichurri Sauce

For a more vibrant and herbaceous option, chimichurri sauce is an excellent choice.

Originating from Argentina, this green sauce is loaded with fresh parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil.

This zesty, robust sauce adds a refreshing kick to smoked salmon, cutting through its natural oiliness.

Tarragon Sauce

Tarragon sauce brings an elegant, subtle anise-like flavour to smoked salmon dishes.

To prepare it, simply mix together finely chopped fresh tarragon, whole grain mustard, a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Tarragon sauce enhances the delicate flavour of the fish without overpowering it.

Bearnaise Sauce

Last, but not least, is the indulgent béarnaise sauce.

A close cousin of hollandaise, béarnaise sauce is a luxurious and rich emulsion made from egg yolks, clarified butter, and tarragon-infused vinegar.

This creamy sauce adds a touch of indulgence to your smoked salmon, making your dish feel more sophisticated and gourmet.

Choosing Ingredients

When preparing a smoked salmon dish, the key to success lies in selecting the right ingredients and understanding the different types of fillets available.

In this section, we’ll explore the various fillet types and quality, as well as discuss some excellent garnishes to complement your smoked salmon.

Fillet Types

When it comes to smoked salmon, there are a few different types of fillets you should be aware of:

  • Traditional Smoked Salmon: This is the most common type, with a subtle smoky flavour and rich texture.
  • Gravlax: A Scandinavian style of cured salmon, seasoned with a mix of dill, sugar, and salt.
  • Cold-Smoked Salmon: A milder version of traditional smoked salmon, with a delicate flavour and silky texture.

Regardless of the type of smoked salmon you choose, it’s essential to focus on the quality of the fillet.

Always look for fresh, high-quality cuts that are bright in colour, free from any discolouration or unpleasant odour, and have a firm yet pliable texture.

Quality

For the best taste and texture, look for salmon fillets with the following characteristics:

  • Sustainably sourced: Prioritise products with certification from organisations like the Marine Stewardship Council or Aquaculture Stewardship Council.
  • Excellent colour: The salmon should have a vibrant, deep orange hue.
  • Firmness: A quality fillet will have a dense, meaty texture while still being tender to the touch.

With the right fillet and sauces in hand, you can now focus on adding a few garnishes.

Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dish:

  • Lemon juice and zest: A simple and classic choice, lemon juice adds brightness to the smoked salmon, cutting through the richness of the fish.
  • Capers: Salty and briny, capers are an excellent addition to any sauce for your smoked salmon.

Remember that the key to a delectable smoked salmon dish is choosing high-quality ingredients.

Ensure your fillet is fresh, sustainable, and vibrant in colour. Finally, pair your salmon with a suitable sauce, like a zesty lemon juice or a creamy dill sauce, to create a truly memorable culinary experience.