Zalmcocktail: The Classic Dutch Salmon Cocktail with Homemade Whiskey Sauce
Step back in time with the Zalmcocktail, a cherished Dutch salmon cocktail that has graced countless dinner tables and holiday gatherings for generations. This isn’t just any starter; it’s an elegant, flavorful journey featuring succulent red salmon, crisp iceberg lettuce, and a velvety homemade whiskey sauce that ties it all together with a touch of sophistication. Simple yet utterly delicious, this recipe proves that classic dishes never go out of style. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or simply craving a taste of Dutch culinary heritage, this easy-to-follow recipe will elevate your meal and leave your guests impressed.
A Timeless Holiday Tradition: Salmon Cocktail with Homemade Whiskey Sauce
For many, the salmon cocktail, particularly one made with a homemade whiskey sauce, is synonymous with holidays and special occasions. It was the kind of dish we eagerly anticipated all year, a true sign that the festive season had arrived. This wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience, a moment of culinary delight savored during those precious family gatherings. The anticipation of that first spoonful, a perfect blend of textures and flavors, was a cherished part of the holiday magic.
The beauty of the traditional Zalmcocktail lies in its harmonious layers and exquisite ingredients. Imagine a tall, elegant glass, its rim often adorned with a delicate border of fresh parsley. At the bottom, a generous bed of crisp, refreshing iceberg lettuce provides a cool, crunchy foundation. On top of this, a vibrant mixture of rich red salmon (chosen for its superior flavor and firm texture) is delicately placed. Some prefer the salmon plain, letting its natural taste shine, while others enjoy it mixed with finely chopped capers or gherkins for an added burst of briny tang. The crowning glory, of course, is the creamy, piquant whiskey sauce, generously spooned over the salmon. This sauce, ideally prepared in advance, allows its complex flavors to fully develop, offering a subtle warmth and depth that perfectly complements the fish. A final touch of a hard-boiled egg wedge completes this iconic starter, making it not just a dish, but a festive masterpiece.
Embracing Nostalgia: The Dutch Salmon Salad Cocktail Today
While modern culinary trends offer an abundance of choices for appetizers, from a sophisticated tower with smoked chicken and avocado to a comforting Dutch Garnalenragout (shrimp ragout in puff pastry), and even a delightful Dutch shrimp cocktail, the classic salmon cocktail continues to hold a special place. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of fresh, rich, and creamy elements, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance without excessive fuss.
Despite the array of tempting alternatives, the nostalgic pull of the Zalmcocktail remains strong. It’s a dish that evokes warmth and tradition, reminding us of joyful celebrations and cherished memories. This holiday season, consider revisiting this beloved starter. Its simplicity and robust flavor profile make it a fantastic choice to alternate with other appetizers, ensuring your festive table offers both variety and a nod to timeless favorites. Are you ready to bring this wonderful classic back into your holiday rotation? I know I am!
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📖 Recipe: Classic Dutch Salmon Cocktail
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
📌Pin Recipe
🍽️
10 mins
10 mins
ℹ️
Entrée and Starter
Dutch
👤
4 persons
425 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 egg white, beaten
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ tablespoon tomato ketchup
- ½ tablespoon whiskey
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream, whipped to a yogurt consistency
- 15 ounces red salmon, canned (preferably red salmon for best flavor and texture)
- 2 teaspoons capers, finely chopped
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 hard-boiled egg, in four wedges (for garnish)
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika powder, for garnish
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
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To prepare your glasses, dip the top rim of each serving glass (cocktail glasses work best) into the beaten egg white. Then, gently press the moist rim into the finely chopped fresh parsley. This creates a beautiful, aromatic border. Set the glasses aside to air dry, allowing the parsley to adhere firmly.
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Prepare the exquisite whiskey sauce: In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream (whipped to a yogurt-like consistency for extra richness), mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, and whiskey. Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly blended and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. For the best flavor, allow the sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours, to let the flavors meld.
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Open the cans of red salmon. Carefully drain any liquid and remove any visible bones or skin. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces with a fork, ensuring it’s ready for mixing.
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In a separate bowl, gently mix the flaked salmon with the finely chopped capers. The capers add a wonderful briny contrast to the richness of the salmon.
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To assemble your cocktails: Take your prepared glasses. Place a layer of finely chopped iceberg lettuce at the bottom of each glass. This provides a fresh, crunchy base. Then, evenly divide the salmon and caper mixture over the lettuce.
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Generously spoon the prepared whiskey sauce over the salmon in each glass. Top each cocktail with a quarter wedge of hard-boiled egg. For a final flourish and a hint of color, lightly dust the top with paprika powder. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful classic!
Notes
1. Salmon Selection: For an authentic and superior flavor, we highly recommend using canned red salmon. Its robust taste and firmer texture are ideal for this cocktail. If red salmon is unavailable, pink salmon can be used as an alternative, though the flavor might be slightly milder. Ensure it is thoroughly drained and deboned.
2. Whiskey Choice: The whiskey in the sauce provides a subtle, sophisticated kick. Opt for a soft, mild whiskey such as an Irish whiskey or a smooth Single Malt. The goal is to impart a nuanced flavor without overwhelming the delicate taste of the salmon. Avoid heavily peated or overly strong whiskies.
3. Advance Preparation Tips: Many components of this delicious cocktail can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. You can mix the salmon with the capers and refrigerate it. The whiskey sauce, in fact, benefits greatly from being made a few hours or even a day in advance, as this allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. For the freshest and most appealing result, simply combine the prepped ingredients and assemble the cocktails just before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 425kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 164mg | Sodium: 666mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 681IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Iron: 1mg
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cold starter recipe, quick starter recipe, starter with fish, Dutch appetizer
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More Delicious Starter & Entrée Ideas
If you’re looking to diversify your appetizer menu or discover more delightful entrées, explore these other fantastic recipes that promise to impress:
- Asparagus Ragout in a Puff Pastry Bowl
- Smoked Salmon Carpaccio
- Salmon and Goat Cheese Towers