INGREDIENTS
For the Latkes
2 large russet potatoes, grated
1 onion, grated
1 large egg
2 tbsp flour
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
½ cup vegetable oil
For the Dill Crème Fraîche
1 cup whipping cream
2 tbsp sour cream
2 tsp fresh dill, chopped
½ tsp lemon zest
For the Arugula Salad
1 cup arugula
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
Pinch of salt and pepper
Fancy Toppings
½ lb smoked salmon (thinly sliced)
1 oz black caviar
A luxurious twist on tradition—perfect for Rosé and Chardonnay
We’ve said it before: Rita doesn’t just follow recipes, she elevates them. This time, she’s taken the humble Jewish latke and turned it into a show-stopping holiday appetizer with smoked salmon, fresh arugula, and a touch of black caviar.
What’s even better? These crispy, creamy, and citrusy bites pair beautifully with our “Violet Rosé” or “Foggy Mountain” Chardonnay. Whether you’re hosting a Hanukkah celebration, holiday brunch, or just want to serve something that looks impressive but feels approachable—these Smoked Salmon & Black Caviar Latkes are it.
Why It Pairs with Rosé & Chardonnay
Rosé: The crisp acidity and subtle fruitiness of Violet Rosé cut through the richness of the salmon and crème fraîche beautifully.
Chardonnay: The minerality and citrus notes in Foggy Mountain Chardonnay enhance the dill and lemon zest, making this dish even brighter.
Smoked Salmon & Black Caviar Potato Latkes
Yields: 6 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes
Paired Wines: Violet Rosé and Foggy Mountain Chardonnay
Preparation
Make the Latkes
– Combine grated potatoes and onion in a kitchen towel and squeeze out all moisture.
– In a bowl, mix with egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
– Form small, flat patties.
Fry
– Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
– Fry latkes 4–6 at a time, flipping when golden brown.
– Set on paper towels to drain.
Make the Dill Crème Fraîche
– In a stand mixer, whip cream until soft peaks form.
– Add sour cream, dill, and lemon zest. Mix gently.
Toss the Arugula
– In a bowl, combine arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Assemble
– On each latke, layer:
A spoonful of dill crème fraîche
A nest of lemon-dressed arugula
A slice or two of smoked salmon
A delicate dollop of black caviar
Garnish with a small dill sprig or lemon twist if desired.
Serving Tips
Appetizer Platter: Serve warm or at room temp on a wooden board for a luxe starter.
Pair with Bubbles: These also go great with Champagne or a sparkling Rosé.
Make Ahead: Latkes can be made and crisped in the oven before guests arrive.
Celebrate in Style
This dish is a nod to tradition, upgraded with local seafood, bold flavors, and wine-forward thinking. With the crunch of golden potato, the tang of crème, the brine of caviar, and the buttery salmon—every bite is a textural dream.
Perfect with chilled glasses of Violet Rosé or Foggy Mountain Chardonnay, this is how we like to celebrate the season—Spicy Vines style.