Smoked Tuna Spread Canapés
These Smoked Tuna Spread Canapés are a creamy, savory appetizer made with smoked tuna, cream cheese, fresh herbs, and bright lemon. Elegant yet easy, they’re perfect for brunches, cocktail parties, and last-minute entertaining—bold in flavor without being heavy or overly fishy.
Ingredients
- 6 oz smoked tuna finely flaked
- 6 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 –2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 –2 teaspoons lemon juice or lemon zest to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or chives finely chopped
- Black pepper to taste
- Salt very lightly (optional)
- Crackers crostini, or toasted baguette slices, for serving
- Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped herbs
- Lemon zest curls
- Smoked paprika pinch
Instructions
- Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
- Flake smoked tuna finely, removing any tough bits or bones.
- In a mixing bowl, stir cream cheese with olive oil until smooth.
- Add smoked tuna, Dijon mustard, lemon juice or zest, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Fold in fresh herbs and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Spoon or pipe the spread onto crackers, crostini, or baguette slices.
- Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest if desired.
- Chill assembled canapés for 10–15 minutes before serving, if time allows.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing to keep the spread light and creamy.
- Smoked tuna is already seasoned—add salt sparingly.
- If the spread is too thick, loosen with a teaspoon of olive oil or lemon juice.
- Assemble shortly before serving for best texture.