If you're hosting a special event and are looking for a menu item that is sure to please your guests, consider serving smoked salmon. There are many ways in which you can serve this fish, so don't be afraid to get creative with the appetizers and main courses. 

Smoked salmon is either smoked cold or hot, using wood chips. Salmon is typically smoked cold since it results in a more tender and delicate texture. Hot smoking salmon removes more moisture from the fish, giving it a firmer texture. Different types of wood, such as oak, hickory, or maple, or fruity varieties including cherry and apple, give the salmon a variety of flavor profiles. 

You can serve smoked salmon for any type of special event or occasion, including birthday celebrations, corporate and family holiday parties, anniversary and graduation soirees, wedding receptions, and bridal and baby showers. If you're buying smoked salmon for a large group, you may get a discount if you purchase it in bulk from a food supplier.

Here are some creative ways to serve smoked salmon at your next special event:

1. Appetizer Platter 

Start the party off right by treating your guests to a tasty appetizer platter with smoked salmon as the centerpiece. In addition to the fish, fill the platter with lemon wedges, cream cheese or a cream dill dip, crostini, gourmet crackers, and mini toasted bagels. 

You can add anything else you'd like, including fresh fruit and vegetables such as grapes and sliced cucumbers, or other types of protein. The platters are hearty enough to serve as a light lunch or dinner as well.

2. Sushi 

If you're serving sushi at your event and want to liven up the spread, serve smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber rolls. Not only are these rolls tasty, but they're also ideal for attendees who don't want to eat raw fish.

You can also serve the smoked salmon in hand rolls, which consist of seaweed sheets filled with the fish and any other ingredients you'd like. The sheets are then rolled into cones and are the perfect hand-held meals that guests can easily eat as they mix and mingle. 

3. Smoked Salmon Salad 

Smoked salmon salad makes a delicious lunch or dinner option for summer events, as it's light, refreshing, and also filling enough to become the main course. Start with any type of greens, and add the smoked salmon, cucumbers, red onion, tomatoes, or any other type of vegetable you desire. 

Top the salads with a creamy dill dressing and crispy rye croutons, and serve them alongside homemade soup such as clam chowder or broccoli and cheese. The salads will also work as side dishes to more substantial entrees, such as steak or fried chicken.