Smoked Salmon — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Smoked salmon should display a vibrant, pinkish-orange color with a glossy sheen, indicating it has been freshly smoked and properly stored. The texture should be smooth and the slices should separate easily without tearing.

Avoid smoked salmon that has a dull color or dry edges, as these are signs that the salmon is not fresh. Salmon that has a fishy smell or white discolorations on its surface should also be avoided, as they can indicate spoilage or freezer burn.

Smoked salmon should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in its original packaging or an airtight container. Refrigeration keeps it fresh and flavorful for up to a week. Ensure it is kept in the coldest part of the fridge.

Exposure to air can cause smoked salmon to dry out and lose its quality. Avoid leaving it uncovered, which can lead to spoilage. Always use a clean utensil to handle smoked salmon to prevent contamination and maintain its freshness.

Smoked salmon can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, smoked salmon can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Leftover smoked salmon can be used in a variety of elegant and savory dishes. Flake it and add to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a smoky, rich flavor, or mix it into a pasta dish with cream, garlic, and fresh herbs. Smoked salmon is also great when used as a topping for bagels, crackers, or crostini, paired with cream cheese, capers, and dill.

Use smoked salmon in a spread or pâté by blending it with cream cheese, lemon juice, and spices, perfect for serving with bread or vegetables. If you have a lot of smoked salmon, consider making a batch of smoked salmon quiche or frittata with eggs, cheese, and herbs. Smoked salmon can also be added to a seafood chowder or bisque for added depth of flavor, or used as a filling for stuffed vegetables or pastries. For a quick snack, enjoy smoked salmon on its own, or serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon over a salad.

Smoked salmon is a nutrient-dense fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. It also provides high-quality protein, supporting muscle health, and important vitamins like B12, supporting brain function and blood health. Due to its sodium content, smoked salmon should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health, but it remains a nutritious choice for balanced meals.