Are you tired of the same old boring recipes? Look no further! Smoking your food is a great way to add depth and complexity to even the simplest dishes. And with these 20 delicious and healthy smoker recipes, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
From smoky salmon to tender turkey breast, and from flavorful vegetable medleys to mouthwatering sweet potatoes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and try something new.
So why not fire up your smoker and start cooking up some deliciousness? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the flavors of different cuisines and cultures. From classic comfort food to international twists, our recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Let’s get started!
Smoked Herb-Crusted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful smoked herb-crusted salmon recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together herbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a foil-lined tray or baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle herb mixture evenly across each fillet.
5. Smoke for 1-2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast
A sweet and savory twist on traditional smoked turkey, this recipe combines the rich flavor of applewood smoke with the tender juiciness of turkey breast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1 cup applewood chips or chunks
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Add the applewood chips or chunks to the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Smoke the turkey for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Vegetable Medley with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this smoky medley of roasted vegetables, finished with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 large red onion, peeled and wedged
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables with smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and brush with balsamic glaze.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this bright and citrusy recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken with the brightness of lemon and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tender and flavorful thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Seal bag or cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Smoke chicken according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 2-3 hours).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, where smoky quinoa fills tender bell peppers for a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked smoked quinoa (see note)
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, red onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday table with the rich flavors of smoked sweet potatoes, elevated by a hint of maple syrup and a sprinkle of brown sugar. This easy recipe is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and olive oil.
4. Brush the glaze onto the sweet potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Place the sweet potatoes in the smoker or grill and cook for 2-3 hours, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Tofu and Vegetable Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and healthy skewer recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ. By combining smoky tofu with colorful vegetables and a hint of spice, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 zucchinis, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite skewer sauce or yogurt-based marinade
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika and olive oil.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Alternate vegetables on skewers with tofu, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with your favorite skewer sauce or yogurt-based marinade.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Garlic and Herb Mushrooms
Elevate your dish with the rich flavors of smoked garlic and herbs, perfectly balanced to enhance the earthy taste of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), cleaned and sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Place the marinated mushrooms in the smoker and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
5. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic to the smoker.
6. Remove the mushrooms from the smoker and pour in the broth. Toss to coat.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Smoked Shrimp
Elevate your shrimp game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of citrus with the smokiness of, well, smoke. Perfect as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, olive oil, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
4. Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
5. Smoke shrimp for 15-20 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Cauliflower Steaks with Tahini Sauce
Smoked Cauliflower Steaks with Tahini Sauce: Elevate your vegetarian game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked cauliflower with the creaminess of tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, leaves removed and cut into 2-inch thick steaks
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tahini sauce (see below for recipe)
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the cauliflower steaks.
4. Smoke or grill the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve with tahini sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Spiced Chickpea Wraps
Transform your lunch game with these addictive Smoked Spiced Chickpea Wraps! Crunchy, flavorful, and packed with protein-rich chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8-10 whole wheat tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, scallions, or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C) or use liquid smoke according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, mix chickpeas with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Add olive oil and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
4. Place tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chickpea mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold bottom edge up, then fold in sides and roll into a neat wrap.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (smoker) or according to liquid smoke instructions
Smoked Avocado and Black Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of smoked avocado with the earthy flavor of black beans, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to medium-low heat.
2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Place them in the smoker or grill for 30-40 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of smokiness.
3. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Once the avocados are done, let them cool slightly then chop them into small pieces and add them to the bean mixture.
5. Stir gently to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on smoker/grill temperature) + 10 minutes prep time.
Smoked Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the rich flavor of smoked paprika, creating a deliciously comforting soup perfect for chilly fall and winter days.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Cut butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on smoker rack.
3. Smoke squash for 30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Scoop cooked squash into pot; add cumin, smoked paprika, broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Kale and White Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of smoked kale with creamy white beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch smoked kale, chopped
– 1 can Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoked kale, white beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Smoked Zucchini and Tomato Frittata
This recipe combines the richness of smoked zucchini and tomatoes with the simplicity of a frittata, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 medium zucchini, smoked (see note)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the smoked zucchini and diced tomatoes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Lentil and Vegetable Loaf
This hearty loaf is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with smoked lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. A great vegetarian option for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked smoked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine lentils, oats, carrot, bell pepper, parsley, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. If using egg, mix it in at this stage to bind the mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the loaf is firm and lightly browned on top.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Eggplant Baba Ganoush
A twist on the classic Mediterranean dip, this Smoked Eggplant Baba Ganoush recipe adds a rich and smoky flavor to the traditional roasted eggplant. Perfect for parties or as a snack with pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Smoke the eggplant for 30 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Let cool, then scoop out flesh and blend in a bowl.
6. Mix in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including smoking time)
Smoked Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring smoky beets, creamy goat cheese, and fresh greens. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 smoked beets (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the smoked beets into thin wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, beet slices, and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Smoked Carrot and Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, infused with the subtle sweetness of smoked carrots and the spicy kick of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or non-dairy alternative
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped carrots and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add sliced ginger and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to the preheated smoker and smoke for 30 minutes.
5. Remove from smoker and add vegetable broth and heavy cream or non-dairy alternative. Bring to a simmer.
6. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Smoked Pineapple Salsa with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and tangy salsa, infused with the rich flavor of smoked pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. Smoke the pineapple chunks for 30 minutes, or until they develop a deep caramel color.
3. In a bowl, combine the smoked pineapple, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, and mint.
4. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add the smoked paprika and salt; stir to blend.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (smoking time)
Summary
Discover the delicious world of healthy smoking recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes showcases the versatility and flavor of smoked ingredients. From salmon to sweet potatoes, tofu to turkey breast, these recipes offer a range of options for any meal or occasion. Smoked vegetable medleys, seafood delights, and savory main courses are all included. Plus, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options like quinoa-stuffed bell peppers and lentil and vegetable loaf. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, these recipes will inspire your culinary creativity.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
