Salmon rillettes
Salmon rillettes is a luxurious French appetizer, traditionally from Normandy, made by flaking cooked or smoked salmon and blending it with ingredients like cream cheese, crème fraîche, lemon juice, and fresh herbs such as dill or chives. The mixture is chilled to allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich, spreadable pâté-like consistency. It is typically served with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or blinis as part of a charcuterie or starter course.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein and healthy fats from the salmon and dairy components, while being very low in carbohydrates. It provides excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium, with a typical serving (about 2-3 tablespoons) containing roughly 120-150 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin D | 10 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Selenium | 12 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 130 mg |
| Potassium | 150 mg |
| Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) | 800 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
Per 1/4 cup (56 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents the French tradition of transforming preserved fish into elegant appetizers, showcasing Normandy's renowned dairy products alongside coastal seafood. Nutritionally, it's unique as a way to enjoy the heart-healthy benefits of omega-3-rich salmon in a palatable, shareable format that encourages mindful eating.
