Simple Cured Salmon (Gravlax) Bites

Fancy a taste of Scandinavia? This easy gravlax recipe easy Easy gravlax transforms salmon into a silky-smooth delicacy! Homemade gravlax is easier than you think. Perfect for canapés! ... Appetizers - Snacks
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some cured salmon recipe at home? this easy gravlax recipe easy easy gravlax is a breeze to make. it's salty, slightly sweet, and tastes divine.
Honestly, it's way easier than you think!
Brief Overview
Gravlax , a traditional scandinavian salmon recipe , hails from the nordic countries. don't be scared; it's seriously easy, just requires a little time.
This no cook salmon recipe takes only 15 minutes to prep. you'll need 12- 24 hours for curing. the recipe yields about 20 appetizer servings.
Main Benefits
Salmon is packed with healthy Omega-3s. This homemade gravlax is brilliant for a fancy brunch. It will make you feel like a culinary genius. It’s a fantastic gravlax brunch ideas option.
Let’s get started. Ingredients and equipment will be outlined in the following sections, but don't forget the fresh dill!
Simple Cured Salmon (Gravlax) Bites Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients and Equipment
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this Gravlax recipe easy Easy gravlax . It’s easier than you think! Trust me, even I can manage it.
Main Ingredients: The Salmon Starters
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) fresh salmon fillet. Skin on is best, pin bones gone.
- ½ cup (100g) coarse sea salt.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar.
Okay, about that salmon. get the best you can find. ask your fishmonger. honestly, it makes all the difference for a delicious homemade gravlax .
If it smells fishy before you cure it, it ain't gonna magically smell better after. the freshest catch guarantees the best cured salmon recipe ever!
Seasoning Notes: It’s All About Flavour
Here are some ways to make your Scandinavian salmon recipe pop. Dill is a MUST for gravlax with dill . You know? The classic.
- Essential: Fresh dill. Like, loads of it. Trust me.
- Flavor enhancers: Black pepper, lemon zest. Optional, but tasty.
- Quick subs: Fiddle with other fresh herbs, such as tarragon or chives, in addition to or instead of dill for a fun variation. If you are planning a gravlax brunch ideas , these combinations will set you apart.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Large dish (glass or plastic). Non-reactive, please.
- Plastic wrap. Lots of it.
- Cutting board.
- Sharp knife. For slicing. Obvs.
You don't need fancy gear for this no cook salmon recipe . if you don't have a super sharp knife, your regular one will do in a pinch.
You're not performing surgery, just making some lovely gravlax appetizers or a gravlax canape recipe .
Seriously, that's it. Nothing too scary, right? Now let’s get curing and how to cure salmon !

Let's Cure Some Salmon: Your Easy Gravlax Adventure
Alright, let's talk gravlax recipe easy easy gravlax . this scandinavian salmon recipe is way easier than it sounds, honestly. forget dodgy complicated recipes.
We’re doing homemade gravlax that’s ready for gravlax appetizers at your next get-together. i’m talking seriously impressive food with minimal effort.
Forget slaving in the kitchen.
Prep Like a Pro, Even if You're Not
Before we dive in, let's get our mise en place sorted. this basically means having everything chopped, measured, and ready to go.
Trust me, it saves a world of stress. you need your 1 kg salmon fillet , salt, sugar, and those optional flavours.
This simple cured salmon recipe is so versatile, use what you love. got some lemon? zest it! love dill? chop away.
And please check your salmon for those pesky pin bones! a pair of tweezers will be your best friend. time to start this easy salmon curing .
Step-by-Step to Silky Smooth Salmon
Ready to transform that salmon? Let's go!
- Pat that salmon DRY. Really dry. No one wants soggy gravlax with dill .
- Mix your ½ cup salt , 1 teaspoon sugar , dill, and pepper (if you’re bougie) in a bowl.
- Spread half the mix in your dish. Salmon goes skin-down on top. Cover with the rest.
- Wrap it TIGHT in plastic wrap. Pop a can of beans or something on top as a weight.
- Into the fridge it goes! 12- 24 hours . Taste test after 12. Do you like it firmer? Wait longer.
- Rinse that bad boy under cold water. Pat dry.
- Now, slice it thinly on an angle. Discard the skin.
Pro Tips for Gravlax Glory
Want to take your gravlax brunch ideas to the next level? first things first: salmon quality is key . splurge on the good stuff.
Also, don’t be shy with the rinsing. nobody wants salty salmon overload. if you're not using it right away, wrap the homemade gravlax tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months.
Defrost in the fridge overnight before slicing. for those wanting to try out new ideas for party appetizers, look no further, this gravlax canape recipe is perfect.
Now, this no cook salmon recipe isn’t just for bagels. i once used it in a salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Oh my gosh, it was divine. honestly, the possibilities are endless. the best part about how to cure salmon at home is that it requires just a few ingredients and you can tailor the flavours to your taste.
Recipe Notes
Right then, let's talk about making this cured salmon recipe truly your own. This isn't just a recipe, it's a starting point!
Serving Like a Pro
Honestly, presentation is everything. Think about gravlax appetizers that look as good as they taste.
Plating and presentation ideas: lay your perfectly sliced homemade gravlax on a platter. garnish with extra dill sprigs and lemon wedges.
For a fancy touch, add a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream. it’s a total showstopper. maybe some edible flowers? you know?
Complementary sides and beverages: serve with rye bread or crackers. a crisp cucumber salad cuts through the richness. and don't forget the bevvy! a dry white wine or a cold beer is just the ticket.
This scandinavian salmon recipe is really versatile.
Storage Secrets
Storing your easy salmon curing project is important.
Refrigeration Guidelines: Gravlax keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in cling film. Honestly, it never lasts that long in my house.
Freezing Options: Yep, you can freeze it! Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for about 2 months.
Reheating Instructions: Never reheat gravlax. It's meant to be served cold. Just thaw it in the fridge and enjoy. This no cook salmon recipe is all about ease.
Playing Around with Flavours
Here's where you can let your personality shine.
Dietary Adaptations: For a lower-sugar version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cure. You could also use a sugar substitute. Always follow the recipe to the T!
Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, add fresh berries to the cure for a fruity twist. In the winter, try orange zest and cranberries. Make your own gravlax with dill masterpiece.
Nutrition, Simplified
Okay, I'm no nutritionist, but here's the gist.
Simplified Nutrition Information: Gravlax is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. But, it's also high in sodium. So, eat in moderation.
Key Health Benefits: Omega-3s are great for your heart and brain. Plus, protein keeps you feeling full. Gravlax brunch ideas just got healthier.
So, there you have it! my slightly bonkers guide to everything gravlax recipe easy easy gravlax . don't be afraid to experiment and have fun.
You got this! remember this gravlax canape recipe will surely be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions
What is gravlax anyway? It sounds a bit like something you'd find in a science lab!
Gravlax is a traditional Nordic dish where salmon is cured with salt, sugar, and dill, rather than smoked. Think of it as "cured" salmon, resulting in a silky-smooth, flavorful delicacy. It's a fantastic alternative to smoked salmon and surprisingly easy to make at home, so don't be put off by the fancy name!
How long does this Easy gravlax recipe last, and how should I store it? I don't want to end up like that bloke on MasterChef who served dodgy fish!
Properly stored, your homemade gravlax will last for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the gravlax for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Can I adapt this Simple Cured Salmon (Gravlax) Bites recipe with different flavors? I'm feeling a bit adventurous!
Absolutely! This gravlax recipe is ripe for experimentation. Try adding citrus zest (lemon, orange, or grapefruit) to the cure for a zesty kick. Grated beetroot will impart a beautiful pink hue and subtle sweetness. You could even add some cracked black pepper corns, juniper berries or caraway seeds for extra flavour.
I'm a bit worried about using raw fish. Is making gravlax safe? I don't want to give my guests the heebie jeebies!
Yes, gravlax is generally safe to eat if you follow proper food safety guidelines. The salt in the cure inhibits bacterial growth, while refrigeration further minimizes risk. It's crucial to use the freshest, highest-quality salmon you can find. If you're concerned, you can freeze the salmon for a few days before curing to further reduce any risk.
How can I tell if my Easy gravlax recipe is "done" curing? I don't want to overdo it!
The curing time depends on your preference and the thickness of the salmon. After the initial curing time (12-24 hours), take a small slice and taste it. If it's too salty for your liking, rinse it more thoroughly. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can cure it for a few more hours. Experience is the best teacher, so experiment to find your perfect cure!
What's the best way to slice gravlax? I want those lovely, professional-looking slices!
Slicing gravlax properly really elevates the presentation. Use a long, sharp knife (a salmon knife is ideal if you have one) and place the salmon skin-side down. At a shallow angle, slice thinly, keeping the knife almost parallel to the board. This will give you those beautiful, wide slices that look oh-so-professional. Discard the skin after slicing.