Making Your Gift Basket Stand Out

By Jack Praino

These days giving gift baskets for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions has become extremely popular. Common gift baskets contain bath products, cookies, and even candy. In an effort to stand out from the crowd many people have begun giving gourmet food gift baskets. These are baskets filled with specialty items with a popular food being smoked salmon.

The problem with giving smoked salmon as a gift is that many recipients have never tried it before. Even if a gift recipient has tasted smoked salmon before it has been in a restaurant setting. This means they usually do not know how to serve smoked salmon at home. In order to avoid confusion and to be sure the gift gets used always be prepared to give advice on the best way to serve the smoked fish.

A great way to serve salmon that has been smoked is during a light meal. Smoked salmon is delicious and healthy so it is a great food to serve with an elegant, health conscious, meal. Since salmon that has been prepared by smoking it is not something that is often served at home it will make the meal seem special. Another good thing about serving this fish with a light meal is that salmon is packed with protein. The protein found in salmon will help the body fill full for longer which will help cut down on over eating of that feeling of being unsatisfied that sometimes accompanies a light meal.

One great way to serve smoked salmon is during brunch. This tasty fish can be used as a healthy replacement for bacon, sausage, or other popular breakfast meats. It will also add a touch of elegance to the table which is always welcome when serving brunch to friends and family. A fillet of salmon that has been smoked served with scrambled eggs, capers, and sliced vine tomatoes is a great treat and enjoyed by people of all ages. Some people have even used the delicacy when making omelets saying that the flavor with shredded cheeses and vegetables is amazing. For indoor lunches this healthy fish can once again be used to replace more fatty meats. Serving smoked salmon with cooked whole mushrooms, cheese, fresh salads, and berries can be a great treat.

When giving gift basket recipient's advice on how to serve the salmon found in their gift baskets do not forget the items that are not salmon fillets. Spreads made using salmon are another great lunch item. Made by combining delicious salmon that has been carefully smoked and cream cheese these gourmet spreads are perfect for picnics and outdoor meals. Served with fresh fruits, breads, and sparkling wine gourmet salmon spreads can add a level of elegances and sophistication to the simplest table.

Dinners created with smoked salmon can also be a fulfilling and elegant affair. Salmon spreads, salmon caviar, and even salmon jerky can make exotic and tasty appetizers. Smoked salmon fillets can be used to create a filling and delicious main course. Served on pita bread and covered with a favorite cheese this preparation of salmon can make a delicious meal especially if the smoked salmon is served with steamed vegetables and rice.

For more information on Smoked Salmon Gift Baskets visit http://www.alaskasmokehouse.com