Looking for a quick and easy snack, or a simple appetiser for when friends and family drop by? This quick and tasty smoked fish paté recipe comes together in minutes and tastes far more impressive than the effort it takes.
Spread it on your favourite cracker or a slice of good bread, add a sprig of dill and a squeeze of lemon juice, and you’ve got an easy snack or starter that’s ready to serve straight away.
Top tip: try using peppered mackerel and stir in a spoon of creamed horseradish for an extra kick of heat.

Ingredients
- 4oz smoked fish fillets, skinned and flaked
- 3oz cottage cheese
- 3oz crème fraîche
- Lemon juice
Method
- Add all the ingredients to a blender, or use a hand blender, and combine until smooth. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
That’s it — no cooking required, and it keeps well in the fridge if you want to make it a little ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of smoked fish?
Yes. Smoked mackerel works particularly well, but smoked trout or smoked salmon are both good swaps if you prefer a milder flavour.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a handy one to prepare in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I serve it with?
Crackers, toasted bread, or crudités all work well. It also makes a tasty sandwich filling for lunchboxes.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and yoghurt alternatives in place of the cottage cheese and crème fraîche, though the texture and taste will vary slightly.
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Do you have a favourite paté recipe of your own? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
