Savory Smoked Salmon Appetizer

The holiday season is a perfect time to brush up on your appetizer-making skills. After all, it's meaningful to bring a dish to a friend or family's home that was entirely made by you. But if you're pressed for time, we know the thought of cooking something from scratch may be too much to ask.

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That's where our recipe for savory smoked salmon comes in. The required ingredients are almost certainly items that you already have at home. The only food you may need is some fresh salmon. (Our Entertainer box is ideal for this recipe, as it ensures you'll have enough for a large gathering.) Even better, this dish practically prepares itself — all you have to do is get it going and watch some delicious magic happen.

Beyond versatile, consider pairing our recipe with bagels from your local bakery, cream cheese, and eggs — that is, if you're planning on indulging in the morning. If mornings aren't your thing, this dish can be seamlessly incorporated into a dinner spread, too. Just make sure to pack a generous serving of your favorite multigrain cracker or a loaf of fresh-baked bread.

Savory Smoked Salmon Appetizer

Step 1

Coat a baking pan with cooking spray. With the skin-side down, pat dry the salmon and then place it on the pan. Sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.

Step 2

Drizzle with liquid smoke, then cover the salmon and let it refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours.

Step 3

Once you’re done refrigerating, go ahead and drain the salmon. Then bake at 350 degrees for approximately 35 to 45 minutes or until the salmon can be easily cut with a fork.

Step 4

Allow the salmon to cool, then cover and refrigerate for 8 hours/overnight.

Step 5

Garnish the fish with lemon slices and capers and then you’re ready to serve!