Smoked Salmon on Rye Bread Recipe – Elegant, nutritious, and incredibly simple to prepare, this Smoked Salmon on Rye Bread Recipe is the perfect fusion of gourmet flavor and everyday convenience. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a light lunch, or as an appetizer at a gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
Smoked salmon brings a buttery texture and savory depth that pairs beautifully with the dense, slightly sour profile of rye bread. Add in creamy cream cheese or a tangy spread, a squeeze of lemon, some fresh herbs, and crisp veggies—and you have a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich open-faced sandwich.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 10 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Cuisines: European, Scandinavian, American
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Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Appetizer, Light Lunch
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Servings: 2 (2 slices)
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Calories per Serving: 250 kcal
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Total Time: 10 minutes
Equipment
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Cutting board
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Sharp knife
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Butter knife or spreader
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Serving plate
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Toaster (optional)
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
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2 slices rye bread (dark or light rye, as preferred)
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3 oz (85 g) smoked salmon
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2 tbsp cream cheese (or substitute: crème fraîche, Greek yogurt, or herbed cheese spread)
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1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cucumber, thinly sliced
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1 tsp capers (optional)
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1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh dill or chives, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by slicing your rye bread if it’s not pre-sliced. Toasting the bread is optional, but highly recommended—it adds a warm crunch that balances the cool, creamy, and smoky toppings. Toast for about 2–3 minutes until just golden but not too hard.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Using a butter knife, generously spread cream cheese over each slice of rye bread. If you’re using alternatives like crème fraîche or herbed cheese, make sure they’re evenly spread to create a creamy base layer that complements the salmon.
Step 3: Layer the Smoked Salmon
Place the smoked salmon slices gently over the cream cheese layer. Fold or curl the salmon for a more appealing presentation and balanced texture with every bite.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Garnish
Top with thin slices of red onion and cucumber. Scatter a few capers across the top for a salty burst, if desired. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the sandwich to brighten the flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and fresh dill or chives.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Smoked salmon on rye is best served fresh to maintain the crisp texture of the bread and the bright flavor of the toppings. Serve as-is or pair with a side of greens or fresh fruit.
Nutrition
| Nutrient |
Amount per Serving
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| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 570 mg |
Flavor Variations
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Avocado Addition: Add thin slices of avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
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Spicy Kick: Spread a layer of horseradish cream or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
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Scandinavian Style: Use pickled red onions and substitute the cream cheese with mustard-dill sauce.
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Vegetarian Twist: Swap salmon with grilled or marinated tofu slices for a plant-based version.
Storage Tips
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Make-Ahead: You can prep the components (slice veggies, portion salmon, mix spreads) ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
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Storage: Assembled sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store individual components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Leftovers: If storing assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Toasting just before eating can help revive texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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High in Protein & Healthy Fats: Keeps you full and satisfied.
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Rich in Omega-3s: Thanks to the smoked salmon, which supports heart and brain health.
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Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
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Perfect for Entertaining: Looks elegant and gourmet, ideal for brunch spreads.
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Customizable: Adjust toppings to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.
FAQ
Q: Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, but rye bread is traditionally used for its bold, earthy flavor and dense texture. Whole grain, pumpernickel, or sourdough also work well.
Q: Is smoked salmon raw?
Smoked salmon is cured and smoked but not cooked in the traditional sense. It is safe to eat as is and has a delicate, savory taste.
Q: What’s the best type of smoked salmon to use?
Cold-smoked salmon is thinly sliced and has a smooth texture, ideal for this recipe. Gravlax or lox can also be used.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free rye-style or multigrain bread as a substitute.
Q: Is this suitable for meal prep?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before eating to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Smoked Salmon on Rye Bread Recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a quick, nutritious, and flavor-packed meal. Its elegant presentation and balanced ingredients make it suitable for both casual mornings and special occasions. With layers of creamy, salty, crunchy, and tangy elements, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes.
