Dessert

Endive Bites with Whipped Goat Cheese, Smoked Trout, and Pickled Red Onions Recipe

ByJack Voss December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

This elegant appetizer combines crisp endive leaves with creamy whipped goat cheese and smoky trout for a delightful flavor contrast. Pickled red onions add a tangy brightness, making it a perfect starter for gatherings or a light snack.

The image shows nine small appetizer boats made from pale yellow to white endive leaves arranged neatly in three rows on a wooden cutting board. Each endive leaf holds a creamy white base layer topped with a small piece of light pinkish-orange smoked salmon and a curled strip of bright pink pickled onion. A small sprig of fresh green dill rests on top of each boat, adding texture and color contrast. The wooden cutting board sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 Red Onion
1 cup Water
1/2 cup Distilled White Vinegar
2 tablespoons Honey
1 teaspoon Fine Salt
3 Endive
5 ounces Goat Cheese
1/4 cup Heavy Cream
4 ounces Smoked Trout
Pickled Red Onions, to taste
Fresh Dill, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Place the red onion slices in a heat-safe jar.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, honey, and salt, stirring until the honey dissolves.
Step 3: Add distilled white vinegar to the hot mixture, stir well, then pour the liquid over the onions in the jar.
Step 4: Let the jar cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours until the onions turn pink.
Step 5: Using a whisk or mixer, whip the goat cheese with heavy cream until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Step 6: Fill the lower half of each endive leaf with about 1½ teaspoons of whipped goat cheese, then top with a small piece of smoked trout.
Step 7: Garnish each endive with a slice of pickled red onion.
Step 8: Top each with fresh dill sprigs and serve immediately or refrigerate and bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Step 9: Enjoy your sophisticated and flavorful appetizer!

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, substitute goat cheese with whipped vegan cream cheese.
Try adding lemon zest to the goat cheese for an extra fresh note.
If smoked trout is unavailable, smoked salmon or smoked mackerel work well as alternatives.
Serve with toasted bread slices to add crunch and bulk for guests wanting more.

Storage

Store assembled endive appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep pickled onions separate until ready to serve for best texture. Let refrigerated appetizers sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to bring out their flavors.

How to Serve

The image shows nine boat-shaped endive leaves arranged in three rows on a dark wooden board. Each leaf is pale yellow with a smooth, slightly curved texture. Inside each leaf, the first layer is a white creamy spread that fills the base. On top of the cream, there is a piece of light brown smoked fish. A thin pink pickled onion slice curves around the fish, and a small green sprig of dill rests next to it, adding fresh color and texture. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the pickled onions in advance?

Yes, the pickled onions improve in flavor the longer they sit and can be made several days ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator in a sealed jar.

How do I keep the endive from wilting when served later?

Assemble the endives shortly before serving. If needed, keep the leaves and toppings separate and combine just before serving to maintain crunch and freshness.