Mary Berry Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and simple to make, Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and avocado recipe is an absolute must-try!

With its perfect balance of creamy avocado and rich smoked salmon, it’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but doesn’t require a ton of effort. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a light lunch, or just want a healthy yet indulgent snack, this recipe offers that delicate combination of fresh flavors that Mary Berry is known for. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal!

Mary Berry Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s delightful Smoked Salmon and Avocado dish, you’ll need to gather a selection of fresh and high-quality ingredients that will come together to deliver a beautifully balanced, flavorful meal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need:

1. Smoked Salmon – The star ingredient of this dish. Opt for thinly sliced, high-quality smoked salmon. It should be delicate, tender, and not overly salty. Wild-caught or sustainably farmed salmon will offer a more natural, fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

2. Ripe Avocados – The creaminess of perfectly ripe avocados provides a smooth contrast to the smoky richness of the salmon. When selecting avocados, make sure they yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are ripe but not overripe.

3. Lemon – A fresh lemon is key to adding a bit of tang and acidity that cuts through the richness of both the salmon and avocado. You’ll need both zest and juice, so make sure it’s fresh to get the most vibrant flavor.

4. Capers – Small, briny capers offer an added pop of flavor that complements the smoked salmon. Their sharp, tangy profile is essential in balancing the smoothness of the avocado and the richness of the fish.

5. Fresh Dill – Dill is a classic pairing with smoked salmon. Its delicate, slightly citrusy and herby taste enhances the dish without overpowering it. Fresh dill will provide a light, aromatic finish.

6. Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion gives a crisp, slightly sweet bite to the dish. It adds a bit of crunch and a mild onion flavor, contributing to the overall texture and balance of the ingredients.

7. Black Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight heat and complexity to the dish. Its spiciness is subtle, but it plays a role in bringing all the flavors together.

8. Crispy Bread or Crackers (optional) – Depending on your preference, you can serve this dish atop a crisp, lightly toasted baguette or crackers. This adds some texture and crunch to each bite, offering a contrast to the creamy avocado and silky salmon.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need only a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment. While Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado recipe is simple, using the right tools will help ensure your ingredients come together seamlessly.

1. Sharp Knife – A sharp knife is essential for slicing the smoked salmon and red onion with precision. You’ll also need it to cut the avocado cleanly, ensuring you don’t mash the flesh when removing the pit or slicing it into neat pieces.

2. Cutting Board – A sturdy cutting board will provide a safe, stable surface for all your chopping and slicing tasks. Consider using a separate board for the smoked salmon to avoid contamination from other ingredients.

3. Small Bowl – A small bowl will be useful for combining the lemon juice, capers, and fresh dill. This can also help when preparing the dressing or garnishes.

4. Zester or Grater – For zesting the lemon, a microplane grater or a zester will do the job beautifully. The zest is an essential element for brightening up the flavors, so don’t skip this step.

5. Serving Plates – Whether you’re serving this dish individually or family-style, attractive plates or platters will highlight the colors and textures of your creation, making it more visually appealing.

6. Spoon – For scooping out the avocado, you’ll need a spoon to cleanly remove the flesh from the skin. A spoon will also come in handy for spreading the ingredients evenly or dolloping any garnishes.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado

The process of making Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado dish is straightforward but allows you to create a stunning appetizer or light meal with ease. Here’s how to bring this vibrant dish to life:

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • Begin by slicing the smoked salmon into neat, bite-sized pieces or leaving it in elegant, larger slices, depending on your presentation style. Lay the salmon out on a serving platter or individual plates.
   • Halve the avocados and remove the pits. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, and then slice the avocado into thin, even pieces. For a smoother presentation, you could mash the avocado lightly with a fork, but Mary Berry’s recipe suggests keeping the texture intact for a more sophisticated look.
   • Slice the red onion into thin, delicate rings. You can soak these in ice-cold water for a few minutes if you prefer to mellow out their sharpness.

2. Assemble The Dish

   • Arrange the slices of smoked salmon and avocado in an alternating, slightly overlapping pattern on the plate. Play with the presentation, arranging the salmon and avocado to create a visually appealing swirl or fan effect.
   • Scatter the thin slices of red onion over the salmon and avocado for a touch of color and crunch.
   • Sprinkle a small handful of capers over the top to add bursts of flavor.

3. Prepare The Dressing

   • In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, freshly grated lemon zest, and finely chopped fresh dill. Add a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
   • Drizzle the lemon and dill dressing lightly over the assembled salmon and avocado. Don’t drown the dish; you want just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

4. Garnish And Serve

   • For an extra layer of flavor and elegance, garnish with additional sprigs of fresh dill and a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Serve with crispy bread or crackers on the side for a delightful crunch.

Expert Tips

To elevate your Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado dish even further, here are some expert tips that will ensure it’s as delicious as it is visually stunning:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the smoked salmon and avocado makes a significant impact on the final dish. Fresh, high-quality smoked salmon will have a cleaner, richer taste that complements the avocado’s buttery texture. Ripe avocados are essential for creating that creamy mouthfeel.

2. Balance the Acidity: The acidity from the lemon juice plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the salmon and avocado. Taste the dressing before drizzling it over the dish to ensure the lemon-to-dill ratio is just right. If you find the dressing too tart, a small drizzle of olive oil can soften the flavors.

3. Avoid Overcrowding: When assembling the dish, avoid piling the ingredients too high. The goal is to have each ingredient shine on its own, so give them space to be appreciated both in terms of flavor and appearance.

4. Experiment with Other Herbs: While dill is the traditional herb pairing for smoked salmon, feel free to experiment with other herbs like tarragon or chives to add different flavor notes. A few sprigs of finely chopped fresh parsley could also bring a bright pop of color.

5. Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh. The avocado may brown over time, so it’s ideal to prepare and serve it right away, ensuring you enjoy the creamy texture and fresh flavors at their peak.

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado is a dish that combines simple, fresh ingredients into a sophisticated, elegant offering. With its delicate balance of smoky, creamy, tangy, and herby flavors, it makes an excellent appetizer, light lunch, or brunch option. By using high-quality smoked salmon, ripe avocados, and fresh seasonings, you can create a visually stunning and utterly delicious dish that will impress guests or provide a quick yet indulgent meal for yourself.

Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a casual meal, the freshness and vibrancy of the ingredients will shine through. With just a few simple steps and expert tips, you’ll be able to create a dish worthy of Mary Berry herself.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy, rich avocado with the smoky, salty flavors of the salmon. While the original recipe is perfectly satisfying on its own, there are several easy variations you can try to elevate or tweak the dish to suit your taste. These variations range from adding different textures, flavors, or even transforming it into a more substantial meal.

1. Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with a Twist

   If you love the simplicity of avocado toast, adding smoked salmon can elevate it to a more sophisticated brunch option. For an extra twist, try spreading a layer of cream cheese or ricotta on your toasted bread before adding the avocado and smoked salmon. You can also drizzle some honey and lemon juice to create a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity, which enhances the natural flavor of the smoked salmon.

2. Citrus-Marinated Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad

   For a lighter version that’s perfect for warm days, you can transform the dish into a refreshing salad. Begin by marinating the smoked salmon in a combination of orange or lemon juice, olive oil, and finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill or chives.

   Combine this citrusy smoked salmon with cubed avocado, fresh greens like arugula or spinach, and perhaps a few cherry tomatoes for color. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dill dressing for a balanced, flavorful meal.

3. Smoked Salmon, Avocado, and Egg Wrap

   Adding a scrambled or poached egg to the smoked salmon and avocado creates a hearty breakfast or brunch option. For a more portable meal, roll the smoked salmon, avocado, and egg up in a whole wheat or spinach tortilla. This easy-to-make wrap is filling, nutritious, and offers a variety of textures, with the creaminess of the avocado, the richness of the egg, and the smoky flavor of the salmon.

4. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Sushi Rolls

   For a sushi-inspired variation, try turning the ingredients into a sushi roll. Start by layering slices of smoked salmon on a sushi mat, and then top it with thinly sliced avocado, cucumber, and perhaps a dash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Roll it up tightly, slice into bite-sized pieces, and serve with wasabi and pickled ginger for a delightful fusion meal.

5. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Crostini

   For a sophisticated appetizer or party snack, try preparing smoked salmon and avocado crostini. Slice a baguette into thin pieces, toast them, and spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice.

   Top with a slice of smoked salmon, and for extra flair, garnish with capers, red onion rings, or a few sprigs of dill. These bite-sized treats are perfect for gatherings and offer a balance of flavors that will impress guests.

6. Smoked Salmon and Avocado Quiche

   If you’re looking for a more substantial meal that still incorporates the delicate flavors of smoked salmon and avocado, consider making a quiche. A simple, savory quiche crust is filled with a mixture of eggs, cream, smoked salmon, avocado chunks, and cheese.

   Bake it until golden brown and serve warm or at room temperature. This variation is ideal for brunches, picnics, or even as a light dinner.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of smoked salmon and avocado can be tricky, as both ingredients are perishable and don’t keep as well once prepared. However, following a few best practices can help extend their freshness and ensure that they remain safe and tasty for later consumption.

1. Storing Smoked Salmon Leftovers

   Smoked salmon, by its nature, is already cured and somewhat preserved. However, once opened, it’s best to consume it within 2 to 3 days for optimal flavor and texture.

   To store leftover smoked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it immediately. You can also place a layer of wax paper or parchment paper between the slices to prevent them from sticking together. If you want to store it for longer, smoked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change upon thawing.

2. Storing Avocado Leftovers

   Avocados oxidize quickly once they’re sliced, turning brown and losing their appealing texture. To prevent this, place any leftover avocado in an airtight container, and squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the flesh to help slow the browning process.

   You can also place the pit in the container alongside the avocado, which may help preserve its color. While storing the leftover avocado in the fridge is necessary, try to consume it within a day or two for the best taste and texture.

3. Combining Leftovers for Quick Meals

   If you have leftover smoked salmon and avocado, consider combining them with other pantry staples for a quick meal the next day. Smoked salmon and avocado pair well with other ingredients such as fresh greens, rice cakes, or even pasta. A simple addition of capers, olives, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can transform the leftovers into a new dish, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

4. Avoid Storing in the Same Container

   If possible, store the smoked salmon and avocado separately, as the combination of the two may lead to quicker degradation of both items. The acidity of the avocado can cause the smoked salmon to lose its flavor, while the moisture from the salmon can soften the avocado even further.

What Goes Well With Smoked Salmon And Avocado

Smoked salmon and avocado are already delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of other ingredients that can complement or elevate the flavors of the dish. Whether you’re looking to add texture, enhance the flavor profile, or create a more complete meal, here are some great pairings for smoked salmon and avocado:

1. Citrus Fruits

   The bright, tangy flavors of citrus fruits such as lemon, lime, or orange can bring a refreshing balance to the richness of the smoked salmon and avocado. A squeeze of lemon juice or a few slices of orange on the side can lighten up the dish, making it feel more vibrant and refreshing.

2. Capers and Red Onion

   The briny, tangy flavor of capers complements the smoky salmon perfectly, while thinly sliced red onion adds a bit of sharpness and crunch. These ingredients can add depth and contrast to the creaminess of the avocado and the delicate texture of the salmon.

3. Fresh Herbs

   Dill, chives, and parsley are classic herbs that pair wonderfully with both smoked salmon and avocado. Dill, in particular, is often associated with smoked salmon in Scandinavian cuisine, and it can help enhance the natural flavors of both ingredients. A sprinkling of fresh herbs can also add a pop of color and a fragrant note to the dish.

4. Crispy Bread or Crackers

   For a bit of crunch, serve your smoked salmon and avocado with crispy bread, crackers, or toast. The texture contrast between the smooth avocado and the crispy bread creates a satisfying bite. A whole-grain cracker or a toasted baguette provides an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish.

5. Arugula or Other Peppery Greens

   The slight pepperiness of arugula pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and smoky salmon. You can serve the dish on a bed of fresh arugula or sprinkle it over the top to add a refreshing bite and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.

6. Soft-Boiled Eggs

   Adding a soft-boiled egg to smoked salmon and avocado takes the dish to the next level. The creamy yolk, when broken, can mingle with the avocado to create a rich, satisfying sauce-like texture. This combination is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner.

7. Cheese

   A few slivers of creamy goat cheese or tangy feta can add a wonderful contrast to the dish. The slight tartness of goat cheese, in particular, pairs well with the smoothness of the avocado and the smoky flavor of the salmon, making it an excellent addition.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Avocado recipe is not just a simple combination of ingredients; it’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your preferences and transformed into various delightful variations. Whether you choose to serve it as part of a luxurious brunch, turn it into a quick snack, or even elevate it to a sushi roll, the possibilities are endless.

By following best practices for storing leftovers and pairing it with complementary flavors, you can enjoy this dish in multiple ways and ensure nothing goes to waste. From fresh herbs and citrus fruits to crispy bread and soft-boiled eggs, smoked salmon and avocado are the perfect base for a wide range of flavors, making it a truly versatile and satisfying dish.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and avocado recipe include smoked salmon, ripe avocados, lemon juice, fresh dill, and seasoning like salt and pepper. You can also garnish it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of capers for added flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe?

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes. The time mainly involves preparing the avocados and assembling the ingredients.

Can I Use Other Types Of Fish In Place Of Smoked Salmon For Mary Berry’s Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute smoked salmon with other types of smoked fish like mackerel or trout. However, smoked salmon offers a distinctive flavor that complements the creamy avocado perfectly, so it’s recommended for the authentic taste.

Is Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t require any bread or gluten-containing products. However, if you are serving it as part of a larger meal, be sure that other dishes are also gluten-free.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe More Filling?

To make the dish more filling, you can serve it with toasted bread, crackers, or a side of fresh salad. Adding boiled eggs or a light dressing like a lemon vinaigrette can also enhance the meal.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe In Advance?

The smoked salmon and avocado can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to assemble the dish just before serving to avoid the avocado turning brown. You can prepare the avocado and lemon dressing ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

What Type Of Avocado Is Best For Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe?

A ripe Hass avocado is ideal for this recipe. It has a creamy texture that complements the smoked salmon, and its flavor is rich and buttery, which pairs perfectly with the fish.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe?

Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and avocado recipe can be served as an appetizer or a light lunch. It’s best presented on a plate with the smoked salmon layered over the sliced avocado, garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of seasoning.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe Spicy?

To add some spice, you can sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a small amount of chili oil over the dish. You could also add a few slices of fresh chili or jalapeño to enhance the heat.

Is Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Avocado Recipe Healthy?

Yes, this recipe is quite healthy as it features nutrient-dense ingredients. Smoked salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, and avocado offers healthy fats and fiber. It’s low in carbs and makes for a nutritious, balanced dish.