There's something truly magical about the appeal of a creamy dip, a delightful cheesy puff, or a crispy latke that's amplified by a smoky garnish. Whether it's a ribbon of cold-smoked salmon or a light sprinkle of smoked paprika salt, these transformative ingredients turn the ordinary into a gourmet feast. Surprise your guests at your next dinner party or holiday gathering with these impressive appetizers, many of which cleverly incorporate supermarket finds like smoked fish.

You can't go wrong with airy cheese puffs, crafted with nutty Gruyère. This elegant vessel is perfect for silky smoked salmon and crème fraîche. Accompanied by a garnish of salmon, caviar, or a few elegant slices of prosciutto, this combination creates a tasteful and visually appealing delight.

Thin slices of smoked salmon are whipped into a comforting base of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cream cheese to produce a velvety dip. Fresh dill, chives, and lemon juice add a spark of freshness to this delicious mix.

Looking for the perfect snack? Look no further than hearty fried challah bites coated in crunchy sesame seeds, topped with an indulgent hot-smoked trout salad. This recipe is thanks to the creative culinary ingenuity of chef Evan Bloom.

Infuse your party with a touch of luxury by serving a chive-laced pizza topped with tender smoked salmon and black or golden caviar. This high-end, yet relaxed combination is a brainchild of legendary chef Wolfgang Puck.

Culinary historian Jessica B. Harris shares the secret to a resplendent dip: smoked bluefish, fluffy whipped cream cheese, tangy whole-milk yogurt, and a touch of horseradish and hot sauce.

Complement the introduction of your well-planned event with a holiday-ready appetizer consisting of store-bought puff pastry, smoked sausage, and a hint of lingonberry jam.

Chef Brandon Boulet's oysters, enhanced with smoked paprika uni butter and a squeeze of lemon, are impressive accompaniments to a chic celebration. Equally notable is a tropical cocktail featuring a pureed cold-smoked pineapple, reposado tequila, nutty orgeat, and lime juice.

Food enthusiasts will love a creamy dip alive with flavors of oily fish, whether amberjack, mackerel, or trout, amped up with lemon juice, mustard, horseradish, and Old Bay.

Bringing class to your spread are buttery and savory cookies that combine smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar cheese with a pinch of cayenne. This savory delight comes from the inventive kitchen of famous chef Dorie Greenspan.

Whether you're planning an exclusive gathering or a weekend brunch, serve your guests a hearty appetizer – open-faced rye sandwiches topped with buttery smoked salmon, tangy horseradish cream sauce, and a fennel apple salad courtesy of chef Claus Meyer.

To top it all off, serve a smoky-sweet mayonnaise-based sauce alongside crispy crab cakes, replicating the taste of charred, smoky onions.