Smoked salmon is a delicacy that offers a rich, savory flavor profile with hints of woodsmoke and ocean freshness. It’s an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various essential nutrients. When paired with complementary flavors and textures, smoked salmon can elevate any meal to new heights.

Recipe: Smoked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce and Microgreens

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the smoked salmon:

• 1 pound (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed
• 1 cup (250ml) water
• 1/2 cup (125ml) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns

For the lemon-dill sauce:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) freshly chopped dill
• 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the microgreens:

• 1/4 cup (10g) pea shoots or other microgreens

Instructions:

1. Smoking: Preheat your smoker to 100°F (38°C). In a small bowl, mix together water, brown sugar, kosher salt, and pink peppercorns. Place the salmon fillet in a large ziplock bag and pour the mixture over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Smoking: Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and place it in the smoker. Smoke for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of smokiness.
3. Lemon-Dill Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Assembly: Slice the smoked salmon into thin pieces. Divide among plates or serving dishes. Top each portion with a dollop of lemon-dill sauce and garnish with microgreens.

Tips:

• For an intense smoking flavor, you can use liquid smoke or soak the salmon in a mixture of water, brown sugar, and wood chips (e.g., applewood) for 2-3 hours.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste. Some people prefer a stronger citrus flavor, while others like it more subtle.
• Microgreens add a delicate crunch and fresh flavor to the dish. You can substitute with chopped scallions or chives if microgreens are not available.