Can we talk about appetizers for a minute? How I love little bites and could easily make a meal of them, but honestly don’t want to invest a whole lot of time when it comes to party prep? This is exactly why, when my friend Fran made these totally addictive smoked salmon-crowned canapés, I was all in.
An Easy Appetizer
What’s not to love about an hors d’oeuvre that’s just a few ingredients and doesn’t require you to even turn on the stove? All you need are potato chips, smoked salmon, crème fraîche (or sour cream), and a garnish. Grab a kid or a spouse to help you assemble and you’ll knock these out in no time.
The Right Kind of Potato Chip
When it comes to debating the merits of various potato chips, I’m not exactly the expert. What I do know is that this appetizer requires a sturdy base. Some chips are on the small side and more suitable for dipping than topping. Important research (it’s my job, people) revealed that crinkle cut chips, such as the ones made by the Kettle brand and Ruffles, are perfect for these. And who doesn’t love ridges in a chip?
Better Fish
If you’ve got sustainability on the brain, check out the recommendations by Seafood Watch before you buy. As for affordability, smoked salmon can be pricey. You’ll likely find more affordable options at places like Sprouts Farmers Market, Trader Joe’s, and Costco, though a really good deli or fishmonger slicing it to order may be superior in terms of taste.
A Lighter Bite
Even though these little appetizers come it an just 35 calories a pop, you can slim them down further by swapping in sliced cucumbers for chips (or do some of each). You still get the crunch and it makes a sort of refreshing option on a holiday buffet.
Bump up the Recipe
The recipe here makes 16 appetizers. I figure two or three per person, depending on what else is on the buffet table. Feel free to double or triple the recipe if you’re serving a bigger crowd.
For More Easy Appetizer Recipes Check Out:
Cheese & Sweet Potato Crostini
Fancy Smashed Pea Toast with Marinated Feta
Salmon Ceviche with Cucumbers and Radishes by Jessica Levinson
Healthy 7-Layer Dip by Smart in the Kitchen
Smoked Salmon Potato Chip Canapés
A simple crowd-pleasing recipe that requires just a few ingredients. For a lighter bite, swap in sliced cucumbers for potato chips. Feel free to double or triple the recipe.
Ingredients
- 16 Crinkle cut potato chips, such as Kettle or Ruffles brand (or 16 slices English cucumber)
- 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
- 3 tablespoons crème fraîche or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 sprigs fresh dill
Instructions
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Set the potato chips on a serving tray. Top each one with a small piece of smoked salmon, folded so that it doesn’t drape over the sides of the chip. Put a tiny spoonful of crème fraîche on top. Add 2 to 3 capers to each appetizer. Finish with a small sprig of dill.
