Smoked Salmon Benedict

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, a truly elegant and satisfying dish perfect for any breakfast or holiday brunch spread. Featuring a perfectly toasted English muffin, layers of rich smoked salmon, a delicately poached egg, and lavishly drizzled with creamy hollandaise sauce, this recipe transforms your morning meal into a gourmet experience. It’s more than just a breakfast; it’s a culinary celebration that promises to impress.

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As a devoted brunch enthusiast, I frequently find myself gravitating towards Eggs Benedict, often paired with a refreshing mimosa. There’s something undeniably captivating about a perfectly runny egg, its rich yolk mingling with the savory components of the dish. The moment smoked salmon was introduced to this classic, I was instantly captivated. The combination of the smoky, delicate salmon with the creamy egg and tangy hollandaise created a flavor profile that was simply irresistible. While I personally adore a runny yolk, remember that Benedicts are incredibly versatile; medium or hard-cooked eggs work equally well, catering to everyone’s preference and ensuring a delightful experience for all.

Beyond its luxurious taste, this particular rendition of Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict offers a healthier twist without compromising on flavor. By opting for a whole-wheat English muffin, organic pasture-raised eggs, and a hollandaise sauce made without added sugars, we’re crafting a dish that is both indulgent and mindful of well-being. This recipe is designed to be a guilt-free pleasure. For those seeking a low-carb option, simply omit the English muffin and serve this delectable assembly over a bed of fresh, vibrant greens or as part of a hearty salad. This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of this brunch staple, making it a versatile addition to any menu.

Why Is It Called Eggs Benedict?

The origin story of Eggs Benedict is shrouded in delightful culinary folklore, with a couple of prominent theories vying for recognition. One of the most popular tales credits a Wall Street broker named Lemuel Benedict. In 1894, supposedly suffering from a hangover, he walked into the Waldorf Hotel in New York City and ordered “buttered toast, crisp bacon, two poached eggs, and a hooker of hollandaise.” The maître d’, Oscar Tschirky, was so impressed by this improvised dish that he added it to the hotel’s breakfast and lunch menus, making a few slight modifications: replacing the buttered toast with toasted English muffins and the bacon with Canadian bacon or ham. This version is often cited as the definitive creation of the dish we know and love today.

Another theory suggests the dish was created earlier, in the 1860s, by Commodore E.C. Benedict, a wealthy yachtsman. He reportedly shared the recipe with Delmonico’s chef Charles Ranhofer, who then published it in his 1894 cookbook, “The Epicurean,” under the name “Eggs à la Benedick.” This version used ham and toasted English muffins, closely resembling the modern iteration. Regardless of its precise genesis, Eggs Benedict has cemented its place as a timeless and beloved brunch classic, captivating palates for over a century with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of smoked salmon, while a more recent innovation, perfectly complements the dish’s rich history and gourmet appeal, offering a sophisticated twist on an enduring favorite.

The Secret to Success: Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise sauce is the quintessential component of any Eggs Benedict, a rich and velvety emulsion that brings the entire dish together. Traditionally, it’s crafted from a delicate balance of egg yolks, melted butter, and fresh lemon juice, often with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Its flavor profile is wonderfully unique: a bright, slightly acidic zest from the lemon, mellowed by the luxurious creaminess of butter and egg yolk. Many describe it as having a “lemony mayo” taste, though its richness is far more profound, elevating every bite with its smooth, vibrant character.

While making hollandaise from scratch can be a rewarding culinary endeavor, involving a whisk and a double boiler to achieve that perfect silken texture, modern conveniences offer fantastic alternatives that save time without sacrificing taste. For this Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, I’m using a fantastic dairy-free hollandaise sauce from Primal Kitchen. This innovative product is crafted with wholesome ingredients like cashew butter, avocado oil, and organic egg powder, making it an excellent choice for those following keto or paleo diets, or simply avoiding dairy and common allergens. I particularly appreciate that it’s free from canola oil and soy, ensuring a clean and delicious flavor that complements the smoked salmon beautifully. It’s a convenient way to enjoy gourmet taste without the hassle, perfect for busy mornings or holiday preparations.

Mastering the Art: How to Poach Eggs

While the classic Eggs Benedict features poached eggs, the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. You can absolutely customize your egg preparation to your liking! Scrambled eggs, Air Fryer Boiled Eggs, or Instant Pot Boiled Eggs can all make delicious substitutes, offering different textures and flavors to your Benedict. However, if you’re aiming for that signature runny yolk and delicate white, mastering the poached egg is a skill worth acquiring. A perfectly poached egg, with its firm white and liquid gold yolk, truly elevates the Benedict experience.

Poaching eggs can seem daunting at first, and indeed, it takes a bit of practice. Don’t be discouraged if your initial attempts aren’t perfect – I certainly had my share of misses years ago! Patience and a few key techniques are all you need to achieve beautifully poached eggs. The key is to control the water temperature and handle the eggs gently.

Stovetop Poaching Method:

1. Fill a saucepan with about 1 inch of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’re looking for small bubbles appearing at the bottom of the pan, not a rolling boil, which can break the eggs apart.
2. Carefully crack each egg into a separate small bowl or ramekin. This helps maintain the egg’s shape and allows for a gentle transfer into the water.
3. Add one tablespoon of white vinegar (clear, regular vinegar works best) to the simmering water. The acidity of the vinegar helps the egg whites set more quickly, preventing them from spreading too much and creating a more compact shape.
4. Gently slide the egg from the bowl into the water, as close to the surface as possible. Avoid dropping it from a height, which can cause the yolk to break. If poaching multiple eggs, ensure there’s enough space between them.
5. Immediately turn off the heat on the pan and cover it with a lid. Let the eggs cook in the residual heat for 3-5 minutes for a runny yolk, 5-6 minutes for a jammy, medium yolk, or 6-7 minutes for a firmer, medium-cooked yolk. Adjust timing based on your desired level of doneness.
6. Carefully remove the poached eggs from the water using a slotted spoon, allowing any excess water to drain thoroughly before placing them on your Benedict.

For those who love their Instant Pot, it can also be a surprisingly effective tool for poaching, though it might require a little experimentation to perfect your timing and achieve your preferred consistency:

Instant Pot Poaching Method:

1. Lightly spray small glass bowls or ramekins with cooking oil, then crack one egg into each. This prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
2. Place the trivet into your Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water to the inner pot. This creates the steam necessary for poaching.
3. Carefully place the glass bowls containing the eggs on the trivet, ensuring they are stable and not touching each other.
4. Secure the lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook for 4 minutes.
5. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of the steam to prevent overcooking.

Remember that cooking times can vary based on your specific Instant Pot model, the size of your eggs, and even whether they are organic, cage-free, or pasture-raised. Organic pasture-raised brown eggs, for instance, often have a denser white and may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the same consistency as standard eggs. Experiment with times to find your ideal poached egg texture. The goal is a firm white and a luscious, liquid yolk.

Assembling Your Smoked Salmon Benedict

Creating your perfect Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict is a simple yet rewarding process once your eggs are poached and your hollandaise is ready. The key is in the layering, which builds a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Follow these easy steps to assemble a brunch masterpiece:

1. Begin by toasting your English muffins to a golden-brown crispness. A well-toasted muffin provides a stable and delicious base that won’t get soggy, offering a pleasant textural contrast to the soft toppings.
2. Carefully place a generous portion of thinly sliced smoked salmon onto each toasted English muffin half. Arrange it artfully, allowing it to slightly drape over the edges for a more gourmet presentation.
3. Gently place a freshly poached egg (or your preferred egg preparation) atop the smoked salmon. Be delicate to avoid breaking the yolk, especially if you’re aiming for that luscious runny center.
4. Drizzle generously with the creamy Hollandaise Sauce. Don’t be shy – this sauce is key to the Benedict experience, coating all the ingredients in its rich, tangy embrace.
5. Finish your Benedict with a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color. This simple garnish adds both taste and visual appeal.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, I highly recommend adding a dash of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. Its blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion flakes perfectly complements the savory salmon and creamy egg, adding a delightful crunch.

Serve immediately and watch as this elegant dish transforms your brunch into an unforgettable culinary event.

Beyond Salmon: More Benedict Ideas

While Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict is undeniably a star, the beauty of the Benedict concept lies in its endless adaptability. Don’t limit yourself! The core elements of a toasted base, poached egg, and hollandaise provide a perfect canvas for countless variations. Here are some other fantastic protein options to inspire your next Benedict creation, each offering a unique flavor profile and experience:

• Canadian Bacon: The traditional choice, offering a savory, subtly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with hollandaise. It’s a classic for a reason!
• Ham: A delightful alternative to Canadian bacon, providing a more robust, salty, and often sweeter flavor depending on the type of ham used. Consider a thinly sliced deli ham or even a leftover holiday ham.
• Bacon: Crispy, salty, and utterly irresistible. Crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch and intense savory depth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg and sauce.
• Shrimp: For a sophisticated seafood twist beyond salmon, pan-seared or grilled shrimp offers a sweet and tender bite that complements the richness of the hollandaise beautifully. A touch of garlic with the shrimp can elevate it further.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, salty, and delicate, prosciutto adds an elegant Italian flair and a wonderful texture contrast. Its cured flavor offers a sophisticated alternative.
• Brisket: For a hearty and indulgent brunch, tender, slow-cooked brisket creates a wonderfully flavorful and satisfying Benedict. A smoky hollandaise or a touch of BBQ seasoning can truly make this dish sing.

Experiment with these bases to find your personal favorite, or mix and match for a diverse brunch spread.

Elevate Your Benedict: Additional Toppings and Garnishes

To truly elevate your Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and add layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, consider incorporating some of these additional toppings and garnishes. Each element can transform your dish from delicious to truly unforgettable, allowing you to customize it to your palate or that of your guests:

• Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado adds a creamy, rich texture and a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with salmon. It also boosts healthy fats and provides a beautiful green hue.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives offer a delicate oniony flavor and a beautiful touch of green, similar to green onions but milder, making them a perfect finishing garnish.
• Tomatoes: Thinly sliced fresh tomatoes, especially ripe cherry tomatoes halved, provide a burst of fresh acidity and a juicy counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
• Arugula: A handful of peppery arugula beneath or alongside your Benedict adds a pleasant bitterness and a fresh, vibrant crunch, cutting through the richness.
• Spinach: Lightly sautéed or fresh baby spinach offers an earthy, slightly sweet flavor and a healthy boost. It can also serve as a low-carb base in place of the muffin.
• Capers: These briny, tangy capers are a classic pairing with smoked salmon, cutting through the richness with their sharp, salty notes and adding a delightful pop of flavor.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed wild mushrooms or cremini mushrooms add an umami depth and a tender, meaty texture, creating a more earthy flavor profile.
• Hashbrowns: While typically a side, a crispy hashbrown patty can replace the English muffin for a potato-based Benedict, or simply be served alongside for extra crunch.
• Red Onions: Very thinly sliced red onions or pickled red onions provide a sharp, pungent kick that complements the salmon beautifully, especially when raw.
• Cream Cheese: A thin schmear of cream cheese on the English muffin before adding salmon enhances the “lox and bagel” experience, adding an extra layer of creaminess and tang that is absolutely divine.

Sourcing the Best Smoked Salmon

The quality of your smoked salmon can make a significant difference in the overall flavor of your Eggs Benedict. When shopping, always look for high-quality, wild-caught smoked salmon for the best taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. Wild-caught salmon typically has a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. I often find excellent options at warehouses like Costco or specialty stores like Trader Joe’s, which typically offer good value and quality in their seafood sections. Many standard grocery stores now also carry a decent selection of smoked salmon, often found in the refrigerated seafood or deli section, so keep an eye out for reputable brands.

Consider the type of smoked salmon as well: “lox” is cold-smoked and thinly sliced, offering a buttery, delicate texture and a milder smoky flavor. This is often the preferred choice for a classic lox and bagel, and works wonderfully in Eggs Benedict. “Hot-smoked” salmon, on the other hand, is cooked through during the smoking process, resulting in a flakier texture and a more pronounced, cooked smoky flavor. Both can work wonderfully, so choose according to your preference and the desired texture for your dish. If you’re looking for artisanal quality or specific varieties, exploring local fish markets or a dedicated butcher might yield even more unique and flavorful options, often with details about their sourcing and smoking methods.

Nutritional Insights: Calories and Benefits

A single serving of this delicious Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict is approximately 289 calories, making it a surprisingly balanced and satisfying meal that can fit into various dietary plans. Beyond the calorie count, this dish offers a wealth of nutritional benefits, making it a smart choice for a nourishing start to your day or a midday treat:

• Smoked Salmon: This powerhouse ingredient is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and satiety. More importantly, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
• Eggs: Often referred to as nature’s multivitamin, eggs are packed with high-quality protein, essential vitamins (like D, B12, and A), and minerals such as selenium and iron. They are also a great source of choline, a vital nutrient important for brain health and metabolism.
• Whole-Wheat English Muffin: Opting for whole-wheat provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release, preventing blood sugar spikes. It also offers dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and contributes to gut health.
• Healthy Hollandaise: When opting for brands like Primal Kitchen or making your own with healthy fats (like avocado oil or grass-fed butter), you can enjoy the rich flavor of hollandaise without unwanted additives, unhealthy oils, or excessive saturated fat, aligning with a cleaner eating approach.

This dish offers a delightful way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that supports overall well-being, providing sustained energy and essential micronutrients.

Complementary Dishes: Recipes to Use with Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise sauce isn’t just for Eggs Benedict! Its rich, lemony flavor makes it a versatile companion for a variety of other dishes, especially vegetables and seafood. The creamy texture and tangy notes can elevate many simple preparations into gourmet experiences. Here are some fantastic recipes where hollandaise can truly shine, adding a touch of elegance and flavor:

• Air Fryer Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture of roasted asparagus, with its slightly earthy flavor, is perfectly complemented by a dollop of creamy hollandaise.
• Pan Seared Salmon: Elevate a simple pan-seared salmon fillet, with its crispy skin and flaky interior, with the luxurious taste of hollandaise, creating a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Crab Stuffed Salmon: The rich, delicate flavors of crab-stuffed salmon are beautifully enhanced by the tangy creaminess of hollandaise, adding another layer of seafood indulgence.
• Air Fryer Broccoli: Transform a healthy side of roasted broccoli into a gourmet experience. The slight char on the broccoli pairs surprisingly well with the smooth hollandaise.

More Brunch Inspirations

Brunch is more than just a meal; it’s an occasion! It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones and enjoy a spread of delicious, often indulgent, dishes. If you’re looking to expand your brunch repertoire beyond Eggs Benedict, here are some other delectable recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy every craving, ensuring your next brunch is a resounding success:

• Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these flavorful potatoes make a perfect savory side for any brunch spread.
• Healthy Keto Bacon Egg Casserole: A hearty, low-carb option that’s easy to make ahead for a crowd, packed with protein and vegetables.
• Air Fryer French Toast Sticks: A fun, kid-friendly (and adult-friendly!) twist on a breakfast classic, made effortlessly crisp in the air fryer and perfect for dipping.
• Taco Bell Breakfast Crunchwrap: Recreate your favorite fast-food breakfast at home with this satisfying and customizable crunchwrap, bursting with eggs, cheese, and your favorite fillings.
• Air Fryer Hash Browns: Perfectly golden and crispy hash browns, ideal for soaking up any runny yolks or hollandaise, or enjoyed simply on their own.

Explore More Salmon and Fish Recipes

If you’re a fan of the rich flavors and numerous health benefits of salmon and other fish, you’re in luck! There’s a world of delicious and easy recipes waiting to be discovered that showcase these versatile ingredients. From quick weeknight meals to impressive dinner party dishes, incorporating more seafood into your diet is both delicious and nutritious. Here are some of my favorite ways to prepare salmon and other seafood, offering a range of cooking methods and flavor profiles:

• Salmon Fried Rice: A hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for using leftover salmon or a fresh fillet for a quick and satisfying dinner.
• Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon: Infuse your salmon with an incredible smoky aroma and moist texture using this popular grilling technique for an elevated dish.
• Air Fryer Salmon: Achieve perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with a crispy skin in minutes with your air fryer, ideal for a fast and healthy meal.
• Blackened Salmon: A spicy and flavorful preparation that creates a delicious, peppery crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
• Salmon Patties: A comforting and economical way to enjoy salmon, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a main course with a fresh sauce.
• Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon: A crispy, savory crust made with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs adds an irresistible texture and flavor to tender salmon.
• Maple Glazed Salmon: Sweet and savory, this glaze creates a beautiful caramelization on the salmon, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Ninja Foodi Grill Salmon: Easy and convenient grilling indoors for perfectly cooked fish every time, regardless of the weather.
• Tuna Poke Bowls: Fresh, vibrant, and customizable, these bowls are a healthy and delicious option, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
• Blackened Fish Tacos: Spicy blackened fish, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas make for an exciting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a casual gathering.
• Traeger Smoked Salmon: For true smoked flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, slow-smoked salmon on a Traeger grill is unmatched, a labor of love that pays off in taste.

Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict Recipe

This Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict is served with a toasted English muffin, smoked salmon, a poached egg, and drizzled in hollandaise sauce. This is a must-have for any breakfast or holiday brunch spread!

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: 289 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 English Muffin, split and toasted
• 4 slices smoked salmon
• 2 poached eggs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons Primal Kitchen Hollandaise Sauce (or your favorite hollandaise)
• 2 teaspoons chopped green onions, for garnish
• Optional: Everything But the Bagel Seasoning

Instructions

1. Toast the English muffins until golden brown and lightly crisp.
2. Prepare your poached eggs according to your preferred method (stovetop or Instant Pot, as described above).
3. To assemble each Benedict, place a generous portion of smoked salmon onto each toasted English muffin half.
4. Gently place a freshly poached egg atop the smoked salmon.
5. Liberally drizzle with Hollandaise Sauce.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra boost of flavor and texture, sprinkle with Everything But the Bagel Seasoning.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your gourmet brunch!

Notes

• You can typically find high-quality smoked salmon at stores like Costco and Trader Joe’s, as well as in the seafood section of most standard grocery stores.
• For a low-carb alternative, simply omit the English muffin and serve your Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict over a fresh green salad or a bed of sautéed spinach. This makes it a great option for various dietary needs.
• Experiment with different levels of egg doneness for your poached eggs, from very runny to medium firm, to suit your preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 Benedict | Calories: 289 kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 10g

Nutrition Data Disclaimer

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.