Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

#### **For the Filling:**
– **2 fillets of fresh salmon** (or smoked salmon, depending on your preference)
– **1/2 cup of cream cheese** (softened for easy mixing)
– **1/2 cup of grated cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– **1/4 cup of sour cream** (for creaminess)
– **1 tablespoon of fresh dill** (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
– **1 tablespoon of lemon juice** (freshly squeezed)
– **Salt and pepper to taste**

#### **Optional Garnishes:**
– **Chopped fresh parsley** (for garnish)
– **Lemon wedges** (for serving)
– **Extra grated cheese** (for topping)

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### **How to Make Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries**

This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal preparation. Let’s walk through the steps:

#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**

Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This will ensure the puff pastry bakes perfectly golden and crispy.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Salmon**

If you’re using **fresh salmon fillets**, you’ll need to cook them first. Here’s how:
1. Season the salmon fillets with **salt** and **pepper**.
2. Heat a **pan** over medium heat with a little **olive oil**. Once hot, place the salmon in the pan and cook for about **3-4 minutes per side**, or until the salmon is just cooked through.
3. Let the salmon cool slightly, then flake it into small pieces with a fork. If you’re using **smoked salmon**, simply cut it into small pieces.

#### **Step 3: Prepare the Filling**

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked or smoked salmon with the following ingredients:
– **Cream cheese**: This adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
– **Grated cheese**: Cheddar or mozzarella work well, but feel free to use your favorite type of cheese. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using a sharp cheese like **Parmesan**.
– **Sour cream**: For an added layer of smoothness.
– **Fresh dill**: Dill is a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with salmon, but you could also experiment with other herbs like **chives** or **tarragon**.
– **Lemon juice**: A little zest from the lemon adds brightness to the filling.
– **Salt and pepper**: Season to taste, ensuring the filling is well-balanced.

Stir everything together until it’s well combined, making sure the salmon is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

#### **Step 4: Assemble the Pastries**

Now comes the fun part—assembling the puff pastries:
1. Roll out the **puff pastry** sheets on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using pre-made pastry, it will already be rolled out, so just cut the sheet into squares or rectangles (about **4×4 inches** each).
2. Place a spoonful of the **salmon and cheese filling** in the center of each puff pastry square.
3. **Fold the pastry** over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Press the edges to seal them, making sure the filling is securely tucked inside.
4. Use a fork to crimp the edges and give the pastry a decorative touch.
5. Brush the top of each pastry with a little **olive oil** to help them become golden and crispy as they bake.

#### **Step 5: Bake the Pastries**

Place the filled and sealed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about **20-25 minutes**, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

#### **Step 6: Garnish and Serve**

Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly. For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle some **fresh chopped parsley** over the top. Serve with a wedge of lemon for a refreshing citrus kick, and enjoy!

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### **Creative Variations and Tips**

While the classic **Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries** are delicious on their own, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:

#### **1. Spinach and Artichoke**
Add a handful of **spinach** or **artichoke hearts** to the filling mixture for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. The spinach will add some fresh greens, while the artichokes lend a tangy richness to the pastries.

#### **2. Dijon Mustard**
For a little extra zing, spread a thin layer of **Dijon mustard** on the puff pastry before adding the filling. The mustard adds a delightful sharpness that pairs perfectly with the rich salmon and cheese.

#### **3. Bacon and Leeks**
For a more savory option, add cooked **bacon bits** and **sautéed leeks** to the filling. The smokiness of the bacon and the sweetness of the leeks bring a whole new level of flavor.

#### **4. Creamy Horseradish Sauce**
Add a teaspoon of **horseradish sauce** to the filling for a spicy kick. This bold flavor will complement the mild salmon and creamy cheese, making for a more adventurous pastry.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

These **Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries** can be served as a savory appetizer, a light lunch, or a fun snack. Here are some ideas for pairing:

– **Side Salad**: Serve with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the pastries.
– **Soup**: Pair with a bowl of creamy **tomato soup** or a refreshing **cucumber soup** for a complete meal.
– **Wine**: A glass of chilled **white wine** (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay) complements the salmon and creamy cheese filling beautifully.

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### **Conclusion: A Perfect Bite-Sized Treat**

**Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries** are the perfect balance of flaky, buttery pastry and creamy, flavorful filling. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering, preparing a quick dinner, or just craving a delicious snack, these pastries will always hit the spot. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Try this recipe out for your next event, and enjoy the delicious results! Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with new variations, these pastries are sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

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This article covers a simple, easy-to-follow recipe for **Salmon and Cheese Puff Pastries** and includes tips for variations and serving suggestions, making it a versatile dish that suits any occasion.