smoked salmon

Though the terms "smoked salmon" and "lox" are used interchangeably, they're in fact, not quite the same thing. Real lox (also called belly lox) refers to the midsection of a salmon that's simply been cured in a salt brine; consequently, it possesses a saltier flavor than what many of us associate with smoked salmon.

Part of the confusion arises from the use of the term "Nova lox" or "Nova salmon," which originally referred to the lightly cured and cold-smoked salmon that hailed from Nova Scotia.

Today, smoked salmon is often prepared using wild and farm-raised salmon from both the Atlantic as well as the Pacific — and modern-day usage of the term has further blurred the distinction between lox, Nova lox, and smoked salmon. Did you know the distinction between the two?

Source: Flickr User jeredb

My favorite kind of appetizer is one that's deceiving; a dish that's impressive and will have your guests amazed at your culinary prowess. But really, you're the only one who knows how ridiculously easy it is to make. The perfect example? This smoked salmon mousse that's a wonderful addition to a cheese plate.

Upon hearing the title, one instantly envisions sophistication as smoked salmon is a glamorous ingredient. The word mousse is what leads the eater to believe it's a complex dish to put together. However, any good foodie knows that mousse can sometimes mean gelatin.

To make this luxurious spread that would be welcome at breakfast, noon, or night, all you have to do is blitz salmon, gelatin, sour cream, and lemon juice in a food processor. Then let the mixture set overnight, and voilà! Instant elegant appetizer. See just how simple it is when you look at the recipe.

If you are a fan of the Barefoot Contessa, you are probably already familiar with tartines. If not, a tartine is an open-faced French sandwich with an elegant topping. In this recipe's case, the topping is a slather of rich goat cheese and layer of smoked salmon. I love this appetizer because it's versatile and is great any time of day. Although the chive oil may seem like an unnecessary step, don't skip it. The subtle flavor of the chives takes these simple crostini to a whole new level. Use the extra oil on fish or in a vinaigrette. These bites are perfect for Mother's Day, so get the recipe now and read more

Tarragon's not exactly my favorite herb, but I do enjoy it on occasion in a good salsa verde drizzled over lamb. Tonight, I plan on making the most of leftover eggs, tarragon, and capers from yesterday's Easter celebration and last night's dinner by putting together a hearty smoked salmon and egg salad sandwich in a matter of minutes. For the recipe, keep reading.

If you're looking for a delectable and festive appetizer to serve at a St. Patrick's Day shindig, how about these amazing smoked salmon crostini? Salmon has long been associated with Irish cuisine because it was once the most common fish in Ireland. When paired with seasoned goat cheese and crisp toasts, smoked salmon makes a wonderful, elegant, and easy hors d'oeuvre. Although many people dislike fennel, the seeds add an interesting flavor note to the dish. My grocery store didn't have fresh tarragon, so I simply substituted flat-leaf parsley. The best thing about this bite is it can be served at any time of the day! Get the versatile recipe and read more

Are you staying in this New Year's Eve? If you're one of the many throwing an intimate gathering or attending a house party, consider counting down the clock with elegant salmon-topped potato bites.

Smoked salmon, cream, and grated potato pancakes are a classic pairing — but on a busy night like New Year's Eve, skip the labor-intensive task of grating potatoes and halve them instead. If you prefer a pared-down flavor profile, top potatoes with a simple combination of salmon, fennel, lemon, and sour cream.

For a blowout appetizer, up the sophistication factor by stuffing delicate fingerlings with a home-preserved lemon topping, crème fraîche, and indulgent — but sustainable — American caviar. See both options when you read on.

Hanukkah begins this Friday at sundown, and to celebrate, I recommend hosting an informal yet elegant dinner. When guests arrive, offer them a drink and a buckwheat blini with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and salmon roe. It's the perfect bite to kick-start a party. For the main course, skip the traditional brisket in favor of Dijon lamb lollipops with red currant-mint dipping sauce.


Potato latkes are crispy and flavorful, and a simple mixed-green salad with kumquats rounds out the menu. To get these recipes, keep reading.