This Smoked Salmon & Herbed Cream Cheese Pastry Ring is a true showstopper, offering a sophisticated blend of flaky, buttery puff pastry, creamy herb-infused cream cheese, and delicate smoked salmon. It’s a dish that looks incredibly impressive but is surprisingly simple to assemble, making it perfect for elegant brunches, festive gatherings, or a luxurious light lunch. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures – the crispness of the pastry, the smoothness of the cheese, and the silky richness of the salmon – all beautifully harmonized by fresh dill and zesty lemon. It’s a culinary experience that’s both comforting and gourmet, sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Contents
Detailed Ingredients
🍞 Puff Pastry Base:
- 1 sheet (approx. 375g / 13oz) ready-made puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg yolk, beaten
- 1 teaspoon milk (or water)
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- Pinch of powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), optional, for dusting
🧀 Herbed Cream Cheese Filling:
- 250g (approx. 9 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon crème fraîche or plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for extra oniony freshness)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
🐟 Salmon Layer:
- 200g (approx. 7 oz) smoked salmon slices
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh dill sprigs
- Thinly sliced lemon zest or capers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Tray: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
- Shape Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared tray. Using a round plate (about 8-9 inches diameter) as a guide, lightly score a circle in the center of the pastry, but do not cut through. Then, using a smaller round object (like a cookie cutter or glass, about 2-3 inches diameter), score a smaller circle in the very center. Cut out the inner circle and the outer large circle to create a pastry ring.
- Alternatively, for an easier shape: Simply leave the pastry as a rectangle. You can then bake it and slice it horizontally to fill. The image suggests a round shape, which can be formed by cutting or carefully arranging cut strips into a circle. For a “crown” look like the photo, you might gently shape the edges of the ring to create natural ‘points’ or segments.
- Egg Wash & Almonds: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture generously over the top surface of the puff pastry ring. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the egg-washed pastry.
- Bake Pastry Ring: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully puffed up, deeply golden brown, and cooked through. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and pastry thickness.
- Cool Pastry: Remove the baked pastry from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely. This is crucial before slicing to prevent crumbling and allow the pastry to firm up.
- Prepare Herbed Cream Cheese Filling: While the pastry cools, in a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crème fraîche (or Greek yogurt), fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, chopped chives (if using), and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Slice Pastry Horizontally: Once the pastry ring is entirely cool, very carefully use a long, sharp serrated knife to slice it horizontally, creating a top and a bottom half. Take your time to ensure an even cut.
- Assemble Base: Place the bottom half of the pastry ring back onto your serving platter or tray.
- Spread Cheese Filling: Spread the prepared herbed cream cheese mixture generously and evenly over the entire surface of the bottom pastry half.
- Layer Salmon: Neatly drape the smoked salmon slices over the cream cheese layer, arranging them beautifully to cover the surface. You can fold them into elegant ribbons.
- Close Ring & Garnish: Carefully place the top pastry half back onto the salmon layer, completing the ring. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and a light dusting of powdered sugar (if using) for an elegant finish.
- Chill & Serve: For the best texture and to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm slightly, chill the assembled pastry ring in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. Slice into portions or wedges to serve.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
- Puff Pastry Quality: Good quality all-butter puff pastry will yield the flakiest, most delicious results.
- Cooling is Key: Do not rush the cooling process for the pastry. If it’s still warm, it will be difficult to slice without tearing.
- Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh dill and chives are essential for the vibrant flavor of the cheese filling. Dried herbs won’t give the same bright taste.
- Shaping the Pastry: If cutting a perfect ring is daunting, you can bake the puff pastry as a simple rectangle, then slice it horizontally into two long pieces after cooling, fill, and then reassemble. The visual effect will be slightly different but equally delicious.
- Variations:
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or a touch of tarragon in the cream cheese.
- Added Vegetables: Thinly sliced cucumber ribbons, capers, or finely minced red onion could be added over the salmon for extra crunch and brine.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese for a subtle heat.
- Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest folded into the cream cheese can brighten the flavor even more.
- Storage: This pastry ring is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The pastry will soften over time, but the flavors will still be good.
Pairings
- Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a sparkling wine such as Champagne or Prosecco would perfectly complement the salmon and dill. A dry Rosé is also a lovely choice.
- Beverages: Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber, iced green tea, or a light non-alcoholic sparkling cider.
- Accompaniments: This dish is substantial enough to be a light meal on its own. For a complete brunch spread, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit salad, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Soup: A light, creamy vegetable soup (e.g., asparagus or leek) could precede this dish.
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-25 minutes
- Cooling & Assembly Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Cuisine: European / Brunch / Appetizer
