Salmon cream

Salmon Cream - a sophisticated and delicious appetizer

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pastry cups

Description:
I present you with a salmon cream recipe that will captivate both the eyes and taste buds of your guests. This elegant appetizer, served in pastry cups, is perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to romantic dinners. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite among many. Let's embark on this simple yet impressive recipe together!

Recipe History:
Salmon cream has deep roots in culinary traditions around the globe. This dish became popular due to its versatility, being served on various bases, from toasted bread to blinis or, in our case, in pastry cups. The smoked salmon adds a distinct and refined taste, and the combination with cream cheese is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:
- 100 g smoked salmon fillet
- 200 g cream cheese (preferably at room temperature for easier blending)
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
- 1 pinch of ground white pepper
- Pastry cups (12 pieces)
- Black olives or black caviar for decoration

Step by step:

1. Preparing the pastry cups:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Place the pastry on a work surface and cut it into squares of about 10 cm, then place each square into muffin tins, folding the corners to form cups.
- Bake the cups for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Let them cool on a cooling rack.

2. Preparing the salmon cream:
- In a blender, add the smoked salmon fillet and blend well until you obtain a fine paste. This will be the base of your cream.
- Add the cream cheese to the blender and blend again until the ingredients are perfectly combined. Make sure there are no large chunks; the texture should be smooth.
- Transfer the cream to a bowl and add the finely chopped green onion. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid breaking the texture.
- Season with ground white pepper and mix well.

3. Assembling the appetizer:
- Fill each cup with the salmon cream, using a spoon or a piping bag for an elegant presentation.
- Decorate each cup with a black olive or black caviar for an extra touch of refinement.

4. Serving:
- Serve the salmon cream immediately after assembly to enjoy the crispy texture of the cups. This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a fresh cocktail.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before using, as it will be much easier to mix with the salmon.
- If you do not have access to smoked salmon, you can experiment with smoked tuna or trout.
- You can add a few drops of lemon juice for a fresher taste and a hint of acidity.
- For those who prefer a stronger flavor, you can replace the green onion with red onion or chives.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 120 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of smoked fish?
- Of course! Smoked tuna or smoked trout can be excellent alternatives.

2. How can I store the salmon cream?
- The salmon cream can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The pastry cups can be stored separately to avoid getting soggy.

3. What other recipes can I try with salmon?
- Salmon can be used in salads, pasta, or even soups. Try a salmon salad with avocado or a salmon spread with mustard to diversify your menu.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Salmon cream is not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to impress anyone. Enjoy the cooking process and the satisfaction of creating a special appetizer!

 Ingredients: 100 g smoked salmon fillet, 200 g cream cheese, 1 green onion, black olives/black caviar for garnish, 1 tsp ground white pepper, puff pastry shells