5 Smoked Fish Recipes That Belong at Your Fourth of July BBQ

Whether you’re firing up the grill for family and friends or packing a cooler for the beach, the Fourth of July calls for bold flavors, crowd-pleasing dishes, and food that brings everyone together. And while burgers and hot dogs may get the spotlight, smoked fish deserves a place at the picnic table, too.

From light bites to hearty mains, these five smoked fish recipes offer something for everyone, from pescatarian parents to adventurous eaters-in-training. Some are no-cook, others can be prepped ahead, and all of them hold their own next to BBQ classics. These dishes aren’t just delicious, they’re conversation starters, second-helping earners, and memory-makers.

Here are five of our favorite smoked fish recipes for your Fourth of July celebration.

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

Recipe: Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

A refreshing start to any gathering, these smoked salmon cucumber bites are as simple as they are satisfying. Layer cream cheese (or zhuzh it with shallots, capers, and dill), top with Acme smoked salmon, and serve on crisp cucumber slices for a light bite that cuts through the summer heat. They're fresh, customizable, and ready in minutes.

Pro tip: Prep these in advance and chill until ready to serve.

Smoked Trout Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette

Recipe: Smoked Trout Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette

This vibrant salad pairs smoked trout with peppery arugula, crunchy fennel, and fragrant basil. Finished with a honey-Dijon vinaigrette, it balances brightness and richness in every bite. Serve as a composed side dish or pile high on plates as a lighter main for guests skipping red meat.

Pro tip: Keep dressing and greens separate until ready to serve.

Sesame Crusted Smoked Tuna Soba Noodle Salad

Recipe: Smoked Tuna Soba Noodle Salad

Bold and colorful, this noodle salad is built to impress. Soba noodles meet crunchy vegetables, avocado, and slices of our Sesame Crusted Smoked Ahi Tuna. The citrusy sesame-ginger dressing ties it all together. Serve it cold from the fridge or pack it up picnic-style. It’s versatile, filling, and full of flavor.

Pro tip: Turn it into a make-your-own noodle bowl station! Fun for kids and adults alike.

BBQ Smoked Salmon Sandwich with Slaw

Recipe: BBQ Smoked Salmon Sandwich with Slaw

Pulled pork, meet your pescatarian match. Our Kansas City BBQ Smoked Salmon stars in this smoky-sweet sandwich, stacked with dill-flecked coleslaw on a soft potato bun. It’s hearty, satisfying, and just messy enough to require a few extra napkins.

Pro tip: Toast your buns just before serving to keep things from getting soggy.

Smoked Salmon & Melon Bites

Recipe: Smoked Salmon & Melon Bites

Cool cantaloupe. Creamy goat cheese. Silky smoked salmon. That’s it. Okay, plus a splash of vinegar to brighten the melon. These bites come together in a flash and disappear just as fast. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a refreshing break between grilled courses.

Pro tip: Skewer them with toothpicks for easy serving and snacking.

Whether you're the host with the most or just in charge of bringing a dish, these smoked fish recipes prove there's always room at the table for something a little different, especially when it's delicious.

Smoked fish for the Fourth? Trust us. It belongs at the table.