Save to Pinterest This smoked salmon and cucumber breakfast plate is my answer to effortless elegant mornings It comes together in just a few minutes yet feels special enough for a weekend treat or a brunch spread The flavors are fresh and delicate with plenty of contrast in texture and taste
My family loves having this for lazy Sunday mornings and it is my go to when I want something satisfying yet light before a busy day
Ingredients
- Smoked salmon: Delivers that savory smoky flavor and a boost of protein Look for slices with rich color and minimal white fatty streaks
- Cucumber: Adds crunch and refreshing coolness Choose firm cucumbers with shiny skin and no soft spots
- Hard boiled eggs: Offer creamy texture and extra protein Cook them to your preferred doneness and cool thoroughly for best results
- Crackers: Supply crispness and are perfect for layering Use whole grain or seeded crackers for more flavor and texture
- Fresh dill: Delivers a bright herbal touch Choose bunches with feathery green leaves
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and aroma Freshly cracked is best for fullest flavor
Instructions
- Plate the Cucumbers and Crackers:
- Start by laying out your sliced cucumbers in a fan or neat rows on one half of the plate Then arrange a generous handful of crackers beside them making sure they do not touch the moist cucumber to keep them crisp
- Add the Eggs:
- Carefully peel your hard boiled eggs and slice them in halves or quarters Place them attractively next to the cucumbers or gently resting over them for a layered look
- Layer on the Smoked Salmon:
- Drape thin ribbons of smoked salmon along the other side of the plate Finesse the folds so they look inviting not tangled Arrange so that every bite can easily be paired with cucumber or cracker
- Add Garnish and Season:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh dill generously over the plate and finish with a few twists of black pepper just before serving For extra visual appeal try a little dill on the eggs as well
Save to Pinterest The smoked salmon is always the star for me Its silky rich bite takes me right back to my first time hosting weekend brunch for friends and watching each person discover a new favorite combination with every forkful
Storage Tips
Leftover components should be stored separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh and crisp Smoked salmon can be kept for two to three days in the refrigerator Wrap the cucumber slices in a paper towel before sealing to prevent sogginess
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the crackers for rice cakes toast rounds or even sliced baguette If dill is not your thing try fresh chives or parsley Instead of regular cucumbers mini cucumbers or English seedless varieties also work beautifully
Serving Suggestions
Serve this with a side of herbed cream cheese for spreading or a small salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette For brunch with guests offer extra lemon wedges capers or pickled onions so everyone can build their own plate
Cultural and Historical Context
Smoked salmon has long been a breakfast favorite in Europe especially in Scandinavia and on Jewish American breakfast tables Paired with vegetables and eggs it is both nourishing and celebratory Cucumbers add a cooling contrast often loved in Nordic and Mediterranean cuisine
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap cucumbers for sliced radishes or thinly sliced fennel in winter Add ripe tomato slices in summer for an extra juicy bite Toss some microgreens or pea shoots on top when they are in season
Success Stories
A friend of mine brought this plate to a lastminute brunch potluck once and it disappeared in minutes Now her family requests it for quick weekday breakfasts after seeing how easy it is to assemble and personalize
Freezer Meal Conversion
While the smoked salmon and cucumber will not freeze well you can boil eggs ahead and freeze them peeled in an airtight bag for quick protein boosts Allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best taste and texture
Save to Pinterest This breakfast plate turns any rushed morning into something truly special Try it with your favorite seasonal additions for a new flavor every time
Ask About This Recipe
- → What kind of crackers work best?
Choose plain or lightly salted crisp crackers to complement the flavors of salmon and cucumber without overpowering them.
- → Can I substitute smoked salmon?
Yes, try gravlax or sliced poached salmon for a milder taste, or use trout for a different smoky flavor.
- → How should the eggs be prepared?
Hard boiled eggs offer a creamy texture and pair well with salmon. Slice or halve before serving for a neat plate.
- → What garnish enhances the dish?
Fresh dill and cracked black pepper provide fragrance and spice, brightening the overall plate.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can pre-cook eggs and portion salmon, cucumber, and crackers ahead for quick assembly in the morning.