Royal Ascot 2014 is underway and the ladies are donning their hats for a wonderful few days of racing, socialising and of course wining and dining. To get into the spirit of things we thought we’d take a look at a few salmon recipes inspired by the millinery on display at this year’s event; some however look so beautiful you won’t want to eat them!

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Canapés

If you follow our blog you will know that we are fond of a smoked salmon, cream cheese and chive combination. And with a little bit of artistic flare you can turn this basic aperitif into a masterpiece.

Transform this dish with some carefully arranged sprigs of fresh dill and place on a long serving plate. Zest a large lemon, or peel finely, and top the salmon with the strands. This will add a pop of colour and interest to the plate.

Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Spears

Asparagus is a spring time vegetable which is hugely popular. So if you can still source it, you’ll have a deliciously fresh bite sized dish.

All you will need is:

• 16 asparagus spears
• 250g of smoked salmon
• 2 sheets of nori (optional)

Method:

Start off by cooking the asparagus. To do this, boil the spears in water for around 2 minutes. When ready they will be bright green and crisp. Remove from the heat and refresh under cold water.

Slice the salmon into strips and wrap around the asparagus. For added flavour you could then cover this with strips of nori. Place on a plate seam side down to avoid unwrapping, ready for serving.

Smoked Salmon Roses

All of the finest canapés look appetising, as most people eat with their eyes. So the better a dish looks the better it should taste!

If you have a few free minutes and would like to improve the appearance of your salmon recipes, try turning your fish into flowers.

Fish flowers are easier than you may think. Simply, finely slice the salmon into thin strips, and at irregular intervals gently fray the edges with a sharp knife or scissors. Wrap the smoked salmon around itself into a loose cone and place down. As the curl relaxes, the fish will form the shape of a flower in bloom. Try for yourself!

At the Races

If you are attending the races this week, Pimm’s and afternoon tea are a must, but fine dining experiences are also available if you are looking for a meal. With inventive cuisine and only the best chefs, whether you have a private box or are stood in the grandstand, the food here is bound to impress, just as much as the view will from this spectacular location.

Enjoy Royal Ascot and remember – you dress to impress, so your food should look great too!