These smoked salmon stuffed eggs are a delicious twist on classic deviled eggs! They combine creamy yolks, tangy cream cheese, and tasty smoked salmon for a special treat.
They’re perfect for brunch or parties, and they look so fancy! When I make these, I can’t help but sneak one (or two) while I’m working. Who can resist that flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star of this dish. For a lighter option, you could use egg whites only, but do keep in mind they’ll be less creamy.
Smoked Salmon: The key flavor here! If you’re looking for a substitution, try canned tuna or even grilled chicken for a different take. Yet, nothing beats the smoky taste of salmon!
Cream Cheese: Provides a rich texture. If you want it lighter, opt for Greek yogurt instead. It still gives creaminess with fewer calories.
Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions or parsley can work well in their place. You might even try dill for a herbaceous twist.
How Do I Get the Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Getting hard-boiled eggs just right can be tricky. Here’s a reliable method to avoid those green rings around the yolks:
- Start with eggs at room temperature if possible. This reduces cracking.
- Cover eggs with an inch of cold water, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, remove from heat and cover the pan for 10-12 minutes. Timing is crucial!
- After that, transfer the eggs to ice water; this helps stop cooking and makes peeling easier.
This method has worked for me every time, and it should help you achieve the perfect hard-boiled egg for your stuffed eggs!
Smoked Salmon Stuffed Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp red salmon roe or fish roe (for garnish)
- Fresh dill sprigs (for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes boiling the eggs and 15-20 minutes for peeling and assembling. In no time, you’ll have a lovely appetizer ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover them with water so there’s about an inch of water above the eggs. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Sit and Wait:
Once the water is boiling, remove the pan from the heat. Cover the pan with a lid and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. This is where they’ll cook perfectly!
3. Cool Them Down:
After the time is up, drain the hot water and immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool for about 5 minutes, which helps to make peeling easier.
4. Prepare the Egg Filling:
Carefully peel the eggs and slice each egg in half lengthwise. Scoop out the yolks into a medium bowl and set the egg whites aside. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re crumbly.
5. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked salmon, chives, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed yolks. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
6. Stuff the Eggs:
Spoon or pipe the smoked salmon mixture back into the hollows of the egg white halves. You can use a piping bag for a prettier presentation if you like!
7. Garnish:
Top each stuffed egg with a small dollop of salmon roe, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and a bit more chopped chives for color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the stuffed eggs on a serving platter with fresh dill sprigs. These delicious eggs taste best when chilled and are perfect as an appetizer or party finger food!
Enjoy your Smoked Salmon Stuffed Eggs filled with creamy goodness and lovely flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While smoked salmon is traditional, you can use smoked trout or even shredded crab meat for a unique twist. Just make sure the fish is finely chopped to blend well with the filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Eggs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste great chilled, but try to consume them as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Eggs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it separately in the fridge. Assemble the stuffed eggs just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Dairy-Free Options?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using avocado or cashew cream in place of cream cheese. You can also use vegan mayonnaise to achieve a similar creamy texture without dairy.
