Smoked Salmon for Breakfast: 5 Brilliant Recipes That Aren’t Just Bagels

When you think of smoked salmon for breakfast, your mind probably drifts to a bagel with cream cheese. It’s a classic, sure, but British breakfasts deserve more imagination. This article explores five inventive ways to enjoy the smoked fish in the morning — no bagels, just brilliance. Whether you're prepping for a weekend brunch or elevating your weekday start, these dishes bring sophistication, flavour, and variety to the table.

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1. 🥚 Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Egg Breakfast Tart

Why it works: Flaky pastry meets rich, creamy eggs and buttery salmon — it's elegant and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 3 large eggs
• 50ml double cream
• 1 tbsp chopped chives
• 80g smoked salmon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment:

• Baking tray
• Frying pan
• Whisk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).
2. Score a 1cm border around the pastry and bake for 15 minutes until golden.
3. In a pan, gently scramble eggs with cream, seasoning, and chives.
4. Spoon scrambled eggs onto the pastry and top with torn strips of smoked salmon.
5. Garnish with extra chives and cracked pepper.

Tip: For a touch of luxury, add a teaspoon of crème fraîche before serving.

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2. 🥒 Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Crumpets

Why it works: This British twist is fresh, crunchy and ideal for a light, elegant breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 2 crumpets, toasted
• 100g smoked salmon
• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp cream cheese
• A squeeze of lemon
• Fresh dill, chopped

Equipment:

• Toaster
• Knife

Instructions:

1. Toast crumpets until golden.
2. Spread with cream cheese and layer cucumber slices.
3. Add ribbons of salmon and a drizzle of lemon juice.
4. Sprinkle with dill.

Tip: Swap cream cheese for whipped feta for a saltier punch.

Internal Link Suggestion: For more delightful brunch ideas, take a look at our Eton Mess recipe – another crowd-pleaser with British flair.

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3. 🧆 Smoked Salmon Breakfast Potato Cakes

Why it works: Think bubble and squeak — but elevated. The smoked salmon adds an indulgent edge.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and mashed
• 1 spring onion, sliced
• 1 egg yolk
• 60g smoked salmon, chopped
• 1 tbsp flour
• Oil for frying

Equipment:

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl

Instructions:

1. Combine mashed potatoes, salmon, spring onion, yolk, and flour.
2. Form into patties and chill for 15 minutes.
3. Fry over medium heat until crisp on both sides.

Tip: Serve with a poached egg on top and a dash of hot sauce for the perfect brunch bite.

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4. 🥗 Smoked Salmon & Avocado Breakfast Salad

Why it works: Light, quick and nutrient-rich — perfect for those seeking a low-carb breakfast option.

Ingredients:

• 100g smoked salmon
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 handful rocket
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp capers
• Lemon vinaigrette (1 part lemon juice, 2 parts olive oil)

Equipment:

• Salad bowl
• Knife

Instructions:

1. Arrange rocket on a plate.
2. Top with avocado, smoked salmon, onion and capers.
3. Drizzle with vinaigrette and serve immediately.

External Link Suggestion: For other heart-healthy breakfast ideas, check out this BBC Good Food healthy breakfast collection.

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5. 🥞 Smoked Salmon & Herb Pancakes

Why it works: These aren’t your ordinary pancakes — they’re savoury, fluffy and made for layering.

Ingredients:

• 100g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 egg
• 100ml milk
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
• 80g smoked salmon
• Crème fraîche to serve

Equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Non-stick frying pan

Instructions:

1. Mix flour, baking powder, egg, milk and herbs to form a batter.
2. Cook small rounds in a pan over medium heat until golden.
3. Stack pancakes with smoked salmon in between and top with a dollop of crème fraîche.

Tip: Add zest of lemon into the batter for extra brightness.

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Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Bagel Topping

These salmon breakfast ideas don’t need to be repetitive or overly indulgent. With a little creativity and British inspiration, you can enjoy everything from flaky tarts to protein-rich salads without ever touching a bagel.

Whether you're preparing a posh brunch or just want to feel a bit more gourmet on a Monday morning, these dishes offer versatility, nutrition and — let’s be honest — a lot of flavour.

And don’t forget: sourcing high-quality salmon makes all the difference. Try to choose salmon that’s been sustainably farmed or wild-caught for the best taste and texture.

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FAQs

Is smoked salmon a healthy breakfast option?
Yes, in moderation. Salmon is rich in omega-3s and protein. Pair it with healthy sides like avocado or salad for balance.

Can you eat smoked salmon raw?
Smoked salmon is cured and safe to eat without cooking, though always check freshness and storage instructions.

What’s the best way to store salmon once opened?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2–3 days for best quality.

What can I substitute for smoked salmon in these recipes?
Try cold poached trout, cured mackerel, or even vegetarian alternatives like roasted beetroot slices or smoked carrot strips.