Blinis are one of my favorite appetizers of all time.  These versatile, savory buckwheat flour pancakes are the perfect canvas for a multitude of toppings.  One of the most classic of toppings is that of creme friache, smoked salmon and fresh dill.  Elegance personified.  Sour cream and caviar is another great combo, as is whipped goat cheese, pesto and cherry tomatoes…the list is endless.  Blinis also freeze well, so make a double-batch and defrost them for an impressive small bite anytime of year.

(To view this recipe, click on the blue title of the blog post above*)

Tagged: appetizer, Barefoot Contessa, blini, buckwheat flour, creme fraiche, fresh dill, hors d'oeuvre, Ina Garten, pancakes, smoked salmon