Smoked Salmon Toast with Mustard and Herbs

Most of the parties we host at our house are as casual as it gets: thirty minutes in, everyone’s kicked off their shoes (and usually jumped in the pool). If I serve appetizers, it’s something super simple like homemade guac and salsas or a good cheese with a crusty baguette. The one exception is our annual holiday dinner party that we host for a few close friends. It’s a fun excuse to get a little more dressed up and go all out with the menu. Now that Thanksgiving’s behind us, I’ve been devouring my favorite cookbooks and experimenting in the kitchen in preparation for our feast, and today’s recipe is the hands-down winner for our appetizer course.

*photos by kristen kilpatrick

When Maille reached out about partnering this season, I literally jumped at the chance: I am such a die-hard fan of their mustards that you could mistakenly think I was a spokesperson because I talk about my love for them so frequently. So, it was an easy task to create an appetizer where they played a starring role, and these smoked salmon toasts use not one, but two types of mustard. The only hard part is figuring out which one I like best!

These toasts were inspired by the delicious flavors in a classic smoked salmon and bagel spread, like cucumbers, dill, and radishes. Instead of the traditional (and heavier) cream cheese though, I used mustard as a zesty, more flavorful spread over the toasted pumpernickel that complemented the richness of the salmon so well.

I love the grainy, strong flavors of the Classic Dijon Old Style Mustard, and the creaminess of the Traditional Dijon was pretty amazing with the salmon. We tried to do an office vote, but they were both favorites. if you’re feeling extra decadent, replace the classic Dijon mustard with the Black Truffle version.

Then I layered on the freshness to make these even more light and bright: thinly-sliced cucumber and radishes, shaved red onion, and a sprinkle of herbs (I used dill, mint, and chives, although you could pick just one or two). A drizzle of oil and pinch of flaky sea salt brought it all together.

Gorgeous, right?

Assembled ahead of time, these toasts feel like the most elegant dinner party hors d’oeuvres. For a more casual take at a family gathering, set out the toasted bread with all the toppings and let guests assemble their own snacks – or a delicious (and easy) light lunch!

And since I know I’m not the only one who’s crazy about Maille, check out some of these really special and elevated mustards that would make incredible gifts for the foodie in your life:

Luxury Festive Mustard Duo Collection

Aged (3 years) Balsamic Vinegar

Black Truffle Mustard with Chablis White Wine

Chablis White Wine Mustard

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