How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette at Home – Step by Step
This Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette is Where Pike Place Market-Inspiration Meets Brunch Masterpiece
Why This Recipe for Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette Works
Galettes are the ultimate no-fuss, make-ahead meal. They’re rustic, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. This version combines creamy goat and cream cheese, smoky salmon, and bright, tangy toppings for a flavor that’s as bold as it is balanced. Serve it warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Inspiration: A Trip to Pike Place Market
This galette was inspired by a trip to Pike Place Market, where the fish vendors are as famous for their personalities as they are for their fresh-caught salmon. The vibrant colors, the salty air, and the energy of the market made me want to create something special—something that could turn a weekend breakfast into an occasion. While this recipe uses smoked salmon for convenience and flavor, it’s a nod to the market’s bounty and the joy of sharing good food.
Easy, Breezy, and Totally Unapologetic
Galettes are meant to be rustic and relaxed. Roll the dough, pile on the good stuff, and fold the edges. Bake until golden, and you’ve got a meal that’s as easy as it is impressive. This Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette has no grill required, no burnt buns, just pure flavor.
My Inspiration for Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette
Sometimes, creativity strikes in the most unexpected places—like a trip to the world-famous Pike Place Market. There, the fish vendors and their fresh-caught salmon, with their vibrant colors and lively energy, inspired this galette. While this recipe uses smoked salmon for convenience, it’s a tribute to the market’s spirit and the desire to create a breakfast or brunch that feels special.
No fish-throwing required, just good food, good memories and a Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette.
Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette Ingredients
Gluten-Free Dough (½ recipe): The backbone of your galette. Sturdy enough to hold all the good stuff, but tender enough to flake under your fork. Use your favorite homemade recipe or a reliable store-bought version-no judgment here. (Follow the instructions found here for my gluten free pie dough recipe.)
Olive Oil (1-2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity, earthy flavor and helps prevent a soggy bottom on your crust.
Goat Cheese (4 oz): Tangy, and creamy, this cheese adds a bright, herby note that elevates the whole dish.
Cream Cheese (4 oz): Smooth, mild, and subtly herbed, it blends beautifully with goat cheese for a rich, spreadable layer.
Chives (1 tablespoon, chopped): Chopped and mixed in with the two cheeses to create the perfect base layer.
Smoked Salmon (4 oz): Silky, smoky, and packed with umami, this salmon brings a touch of luxury and depth to every bite.
Capers (2 tablespoons): Tiny but mighty, these briny little buds add a pop of tang and a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
Red Onion (⅓ cup, chopped): Crisp, slightly sweet, and with a mild bite, red onion adds crunch and a splash of color.
Half and Half (for dough wash): Gives the crust a bakery-window sheen and helps it brown beautifully.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season to your liking for the perfect finish.
Dill (1 tablespoon, chopped): Fresh, aromatic, and classic with salmon, dill ties all the flavors together—added after baking.
Equipment to Make the Smoked Salmon Galette
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the galette dough to the perfect thickness.
Baking Sheet: You’ll need a sturdy baking sheet to help your gluten-free smoked salmon galette bake up evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
Parchment Paper: My insurance policy against galette disasters. Let’s keep the pan spotless for minimal cleanup.
Mixing Bowl: For blending the two cheeses and chives.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the chives, onions, as well as slicing the dill.
Small Bowl and Pastry Brush: For brushing the crust with a wash for a golden finish.
Oven: The heart of the kitchen. Where all the magic happens.
Ingredient Substitutions
Gluten-Free Dough: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade gluten-free pizza dough.
Goat/Cream Cheese: Ricotta or mascarpone can be used for a milder, creamier base, but you’ll miss the herby kick of chives.
Smoked Salmon: Lox or gravlax are excellent alternatives, offering a similar silky texture and smoky flavor profile.
Capers: Chopped green olives can stand in for capers, providing a briny note and a bit of extra crunch.
Red Onion: Shallots or green onions can be substituted for a milder, sweeter onion flavor, if you prefer.
Half and Half: Milk or egg wash can be used for a similar golden crust.
What to Serve With Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette Ingredients
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a bright shallot vinaigrette adds a pop of color and zesty flavor. It balances the richness of the galette and makes the meal feel elevated.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies that can add colorful sides that add a tender crunch and a touch of sweetness to your plate.
Pickles or Cornichons: Tangy and crunchy, pickles cut through the creaminess of the cheese and add a fun, retro vibe.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and palate-cleansing, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is the perfect drink pairing.
White Wine: A dry Italian white pairs perfectly with the zesty flavors.
Reasons to Love this Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette Recipe
Gluten-free and delicious: No compromise on taste or texture… plus you get all that smokey, salmon goodness.
Easy to make: No fancy equipment or skills required. You can elevate it with homemade sauce, but store bought still keeps you in “hero” status.
Versatile: Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Perfect for sharing: Great for gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Unexpected flavors: The honey and chili paste add a unique twist.
Rustic Charm: The galette’s rustic appearance and free-form shape add to its appeal. It’s an inviting and visually pleasing dish that feels cozy and comforting, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Brunch Bagel Replacement: Have you tried a gluten free bagel...good ones are hard to find. This galette delivers on flavor.
Easy to Customize: You can make this galette your own by swapping in your favorite cheese or herbs, so it’s a little different every time.
Adaptable for Dietary Needs: Did I mention you can make it dairy-free, vegan, or incorporate other dietary restrictions by choosing suitable substitutions.
Great for Any Meal: Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this galette fits right in—perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Rustic Gluten-Free Smoked Salmon Galette Needs to be on your Recipe to do List!
Ingredients
Gluten Free Dough
1 gluten-free pie crust https://stevesinthekitchen.com/recipe/gluten-free-pie-crust/ (Make a single crust)
1tbsp Half and Half (For the dough wash)
Galette Filling
1.5tbsp Olive Oil
4ounces Cream Cheese (Softened)
4ounces Goat Cheese (Softened)
1-2tbsp Chives (Chopped)
2tbsp Capers (Rinsed)
1/3cup Red Onion (Finely Diced)
1tsp Salt (To taste)
1tsp Ground Black Pepper (To taste)
1tbsp Fresh Dill (Chopped)
Instructions
Prepare the Gluten-Free Crust
1
Prepare a single gluten-free pie crust according to the recipe found here.
Roll out the gluten-free pastry dough to a thickness of about 1/8" into a circle approximately 14” in diameter.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; Transfer the rolled out dough to the prepared baking sheet.
Assemble the Galette
2
Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the goat cheese and cream cheese in a bowl, soften on the counter for about 30 minutes.
Mix softened goat cheese and cream cheese with chopped chives smooth.
Spread the herbed cheese mixture over the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
Layer smoked salmon, capers, and red onion on top of the cheese.
Fold and Bake
3
Fold the edges of the dough over onto the filling, remember perfection is not your guide here…it is meant to be rustic.
Brush the folded dough edges with half and half (for that bakery window sheen) and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
4
Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Chop the dill (fronds only, no stems).
Sprinkle fresh chopped dill over the top.
Slice and serve warm-because nobody likes a cold galette.
Slice, serve, and savor the flavors... let brunch begin!
Note
Gluten-Free Flours
When it comes to baking gluten-free, the type of flour you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your final product. Here are some important tips regarding gluten-free flours:
1. Homemade Flour Blend
I use a custom gluten-free flour blend that I make myself, which weighs approximately 140 grams per cup. This blend typically includes a mix of gluten-free flours such as white and brown rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, sorghum and milk powder, providing a balanced texture and flavor for baking.
2. Store-Bought Gluten-Free Flours
If you prefer to use a store-bought gluten-free flour blend, it's crucial to check the packaging for the weight per cup, as this can vary between brands. Each manufacturer may have a different formulation, which affects the density and weight of their flour.
None of these flourscontain xanthan gum. So if your recipe calls for xanthan gum, omit the extra xanthan if using one of these blends. All of the manufacturers promote these products as a one-to-one replacement.
3. Measuring for Accuracy
For the most accurate results, I highly recommend using a digital food scale to measure your gluten-free flour. Measuring by weight ensures that you have the correct amount, leading to more consistent and successful baking outcomes. This method eliminates the variability that can come from measuring by volume, especially with gluten-free flours, which can be compacted or aerated differently.
By paying attention to these details, you'll set yourself up for success. Happy baking!
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Steve Visintainer
Home Cook & Blogger
I'm a self-trained, home cook focused on reinventing recipes…making them gluten-free (if they aren’t already.) I started this journey several years ago after my wife started experiencing difficulties eating foods that contain gluten.