Salmon en Croûte, or salmon wrapped in puff pastry, is an impressive and flavorful choice for special dinners. This dish combines rich salmon with a creamy spinach and herb filling, all enclosed in golden, flaky pastry. The creamy filling perfectly complements the salmon, while the crisp pastry gives it a sophisticated presentation.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon en Croûte:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach and Cream Cheese Filling:
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a small skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix with Cream Cheese and Herbs: In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach with cream cheese, fresh dill, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This filling adds both flavor and moisture to the salmon.
2. Prepare the Salmon and Pastry:
- Season the Salmon: Pat each salmon fillet dry with a paper towel and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cut the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 equal pieces, large enough to fully enclose each salmon fillet with the filling.
3. Assemble the Salmon en Croûte:
- Add the Filling: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the spinach and cream cheese filling on top of each salmon fillet.
- Wrap in Pastry: Place the salmon fillet, filling side down, in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the pastry over the salmon, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a bit of water to help seal the edges if needed.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Transfer each pastry-wrapped salmon fillet to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top and sides of each pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish. For a decorative touch, score the top lightly with a knife or add pastry cut-outs.
4. Bake the Salmon en Croûte:
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the salmon is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon.
5. Serve:
- Let the salmon en croûte rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 40% of daily value |
| Omega-3s | High |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Elegant Presentation: The golden pastry and fresh herb garnish make it a showstopper.
- Balanced Flavors: The cream cheese and spinach filling adds richness and balances the salmon.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Easy to prepare yet impressive, making it ideal for guests or special events.
Tips for a Perfect Salmon en Croûte:
- Keep the Pastry Cold: Cold puff pastry bakes best, resulting in a flaky, crisp texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and chives elevate the flavor, giving the dish a vibrant finish.
- Customize the Filling: For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion: A Memorable Dish for Special Occasions
This Salmon en Croûte with Spinach and Cream Cheese offers a rich combination of flavors and textures, perfect for impressing guests at weddings, anniversaries, or any celebratory meal. With a few simple ingredients and an elegant presentation, this dish brings a taste of luxury to your table.
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