If you’re looking to wow your guests with something both elegant and irresistibly delicious, the Smoked Salmon Canapes with Lemon Truffle Mayo Recipe is your new best friend. These bite-sized beauties combine the silky richness of smoked salmon with a tangy, luxurious lemon truffle mayo that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a fancy soirée, these canapes bring the perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and a subtle hint of decadence that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each one plays a vital role—from the creamy mayo and bright lemon to the aromatic truffle oil and fresh cucumber, making the canapes pop both in taste and appearance.
- 1/2 cup mayo: Provides a creamy, smooth base that balances the smoky salmon and sharp lemon zest.
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice: Adds a fresh, citrusy tang that lifts the whole dish.
- Zest from 1/2 lemon: Brings a fragrant lemon aroma and a little zing to the mayo.
- 1/2 tsp white truffle oil: Infuses an earthy, gourmet note that transforms these canapes into a luxe treat.
- 1 shallot (chopped finely): Adds subtle sweetness and crunch to the mayo mixture.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, making everything shine.
- 12 ounces sliced smoked salmon: The star ingredient, silky and packed with smoky richness.
- 1/4 cucumber (sliced thinly): Offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy mayo and salmon.
- Baguette (cut into 1/2 inch thick slices): Provides a sturdy, slightly crunchy base to hold all the delicious layers.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Canapes with Lemon Truffle Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Truffle Mayo
Start by whisking together the mayo, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, white truffle oil, finely chopped shallot, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture is where the magic begins. The lemon immediately brightens the rich mayo, while the truffle oil adds a sophisticated twist that elevates every bite. Set this luscious mayo aside as it’s the creamy canvas for your canapes.
Step 2: Slice and Toast Your Baguette
Next, cut your baguette into thin, half-inch slices. For best texture, you can lightly toast the slices until they’re golden and crisp. This prevents sogginess and gives a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft salmon and creamy mayo. If you prefer the bread softer, simply leave them untoasted—it’s delicious either way.
Step 3: Assemble the Canapes
Spread a generous layer of your lemon truffle mayo on each baguette slice. Then, artfully layer a slice of smoked salmon over the mayo, followed by one or two thin cucumber slices. The cucumber not only adds crunch but also a refreshing coolness that balances the smoky salmon’s intensity. If you want to make your canapes extra special, sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top for a bright pop of color and flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
These canapes are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them immediately after assembling. Their vibrant flavors and textures make them the perfect appetizer to impress your guests and satisfy your own cravings for something a bit luxurious yet easy to whip up.
How to Serve Smoked Salmon Canapes with Lemon Truffle Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
To add a bit of elegance, consider garnishing your canapes with dill sprigs, capers, or a tiny dollop of crème fraîche. These little touches enhance both the presentation and the flavor profile, complementing the smoky salmon and truffle mayo perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your canapes with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette, or serve alongside a chilled glass of sparkling wine or champagne. The bubbles refresh the palate and make each bite taste even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming party presentation, arrange the canapes on a wooden board or slate platter. You might also try serving the lemon truffle mayo in a small bowl with crackers or cucumber rounds for guests to build their own canapes. Presentation can turn an already delicious recipe into a real conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the canapes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh cucumber and bread, they are best eaten within a day to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
It’s not recommended to freeze these canapes since the bread and cucumber lose their texture and the mayo may separate when thawed, compromising the overall taste and experience.
Reheating
Since these canapes are served cold and fresh, reheating is not necessary or advised. Enjoy them straight from the fridge if made slightly ahead, or ideally just assembled for the best bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette gives a classic French touch, rye bread or pumpernickel can add an interesting, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with smoked salmon.
Is there a substitute for truffle oil?
If you don’t have truffle oil on hand, you can leave it out for a simpler mayo or replace it with a small amount of good quality olive oil for a more straightforward flavor.
How far ahead can I prepare these canapes?
Prepare the lemon truffle mayo and slice the bread up to a day in advance. Assemble the canapes just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy and the cucumber crisp.
Can I add other toppings to the canapes?
Definitely! Everything from thin slices of avocado, radish, or even a small spoonful of caviar can take these canapes to the next level depending on your taste and occasion.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Arrange them on an attractive platter with garnishes like dill or capers nearby so guests can customize if they wish. Keeping napkins handy is also a great idea since these are delightfully finger-friendly treats.
Final Thoughts
Give the Smoked Salmon Canapes with Lemon Truffle Mayo Recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it brings elegance and flavor together. Whether you’re entertaining or simply craving a luxe snack, this recipe promises an impressive, delicious experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy cooking and even happier munching!
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Smoked Salmon Canapes with Lemon Truffle Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 canapes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
These elegant Smoked Salmon Canapes with Easy Lemon Truffle Mayo are a perfect appetizer for any gathering. The creamy, zesty truffle mayo pairs beautifully with delicate smoked salmon and crisp cucumber atop toasted baguette slices, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Simple to prepare and visually impressive, they make an ideal bite-sized treat for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
Lemon Truffle Mayo
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest from 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 tsp white truffle oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
Canape Assembly
- 12 ounces sliced smoked salmon
- 1/4 cucumber, sliced thinly
- Baguette, cut into 1/2 inch thick slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Truffle Mayo: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, white truffle oil, finely chopped shallot, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Canapes: Take each baguette slice and spread a generous layer of the lemon truffle mayo on top. Place a slice of smoked salmon over the mayo, then add a thin slice of cucumber atop the salmon. Optionally, sprinkle extra lemon zest for an added burst of citrus aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: Arrange the canapes on a serving platter and serve fresh to maintain the crispness of the baguette and freshness of the ingredients. These are best enjoyed immediately after assembly for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- The canapes are best served fresh; assembling right before serving prevents the baguette from becoming soggy.
- You can substitute white truffle oil with regular olive oil if preferred, though the truffle oil adds a distinctive earthy aroma.
- Sliced cucumbers can be peeled if desired for a smoother texture.
- For a dairy-free alternative, use a vegan mayonnaise.

