Smoked Salmon & Herb Blinis Recipe
Introduction
Smoked salmon and herb blinis make for an elegant and effortless appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine creamy garlic and herb cheese with silky smoked salmon, topped with fresh cress for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
- 16 cocktail blinis
- 120g garlic & herb cream cheese
- 120g smoked salmon trimmings
- 20g tub cress
Instructions
- Step 1: Warm the blinis according to the package instructions to ensure they are soft and slightly toasted.
- Step 2: Spread a generous layer of garlic and herb cream cheese evenly over each blini.
- Step 3: Lay smoked salmon trimmings on top of the cream cheese-covered blinis.
- Step 4: Scatter fresh cress over the salmon for a peppery finish.
- Step 5: Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For added freshness, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the salmon before topping with cress.
- Try using dill or chives as an alternative to cress for a different herbaceous note.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute smoked salmon trimmings with cooked peeled prawns or cucumber slices.
Storage
These blinis are best enjoyed immediately to maintain their texture and freshness. If you need to prepare in advance, keep components separate: store blinis in an airtight container at room temperature, and keep the cream cheese, salmon, and cress refrigerated. Assemble just before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours but may lose their optimal texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these blinis ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the blinis just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess. You can warm the blinis and prepare toppings separately, then assemble right before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have garlic & herb cream cheese?
You can substitute plain cream cheese mixed with fresh or dried herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Print
Smoked Salmon & Herb Blinis Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Delightful smoked salmon and herb blinis, perfect for an elegant appetizer or a sophisticated snack. Light cocktail blinis are topped with creamy garlic and herb cream cheese, flavorful smoked salmon trimmings, and fresh cress, seasoned with a touch of black pepper for a fresh, savory bite that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Blinis
- 16 cocktail blinis
Spread
- 120g garlic & herb cream cheese
- 120g smoked salmon trimmings
- 20g tub cress
- Black pepper, to season
Instructions
- Warm the blinis: Follow the pack instructions to warm the cocktail blinis evenly, ensuring they are soft and slightly toasted to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Spread with cream cheese: Evenly spread each warm blini with a generous layer of garlic and herb cream cheese, providing a creamy and flavorful base for the toppings.
- Add smoked salmon: Lay the smoked salmon trimmings carefully over the cream cheese on each blini, distributing the salmon evenly to maximize taste in every bite.
- Garnish with cress: Scatter fresh cress on top of the salmon for a peppery and fresh flavor contrast that complements the smoky fish perfectly.
- Season and serve: Lightly season each blini with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the blinis while warm and fresh.
Notes
- Use pre-packaged cocktail blinis to save preparation time.
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the smoked salmon.
- If unavailable, substitute cress with fresh dill or microgreens.
- Serve as a quick party appetizer or elegant snack.
- Can be prepared shortly before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: smoked salmon, blinis, appetizer, herb cream cheese, cress, party snack, easy recipe

