Smoked Salmon Basket with Creamy Horseradish Cheese

This delectable dish brings together the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the creamy, tangy bite of horseradish cheese nestled in a crisp pastry basket. Ideal for appetizers, brunch, or even a light lunch, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a sophisticated and flavorful experience. The crunch of the pastry basket plays off the creamy filling and savory salmon, offering a satisfying texture with every bite. Fresh chives add a touch of color and a slight onion flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. These salmon baskets are not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing, making them a great choice for entertaining guests. The dish can be easily adapted to different palates by adjusting the horseradish level to your taste. Quick and straightforward to prepare, it's perfect for those who wish to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen. This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or complemented with various sides and drinks for a complete meal. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors and textures that's sure to be a hit at any table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Pastry baskets: 1 package
Fresh cream cheese: 1 package
Smoked salmon: Sliced

Spices and Sauces:

Horseradish: 3-4 tablespoons
Fresh chives: Chopped

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes (10 minutes prep, 10 minutes chilling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by placing the fresh cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Add horseradish to the bowl.
Using a blender, mix the cream cheese and horseradish until smooth and well combined.
Taste the mixture; if you desire more heat, incorporate additional horseradish to your liking.
Once satisfied with the spice level, transfer the cheese mixture to a container.
Place the container in the refrigerator and chill for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld.
While the cheese mixture chills, take out the smoked salmon and slice it if not pre-sliced.
Chop the fresh chives finely and set them aside for later use.
After the chilling period, remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator.
Prepare your pastry baskets by arranging them on a serving platter.
Fill each basket with a generous scoop of the chilled cheese mixture.
Top each basket with slices of smoked salmon, arranging them in an appealing manner.
Garnish each filled basket with chopped chives, adding a pop of color and flavor.
Optionally, add a twist of black pepper or a spritz of lemon juice for extra zest.
Serve the filled baskets immediately for the best texture and flavor.
If not serving right away, store them in the refrigerator, but note they are best enjoyed fresh.
For a twist, add a thin cucumber slice for added crunch and freshness.
These baskets can be prepared in advance, but warranty fresh assembly before serving.
Adjust the seasoning to your guests' preferences, being mindful of the intense flavors of horseradish.
Use quality ingredients, particularly the salmon, to ensure the best taste outcome.
Enjoy your culinary creation with friends and family, savoring the balance of textures and flavors.

Tips

Substitutions: For a milder flavor, replace horseradish with garlic powder or omit entirely.
Techniques: Blend the cheese and horseradish mixture until smooth for a silky texture.
Additional Garnish: Add dill or capers for additional depth of flavor.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
Protein: 4g
Fats: 8g
Carbohydrates: 6g

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pastry baskets.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace smoked salmon with grilled vegetables or tofu slices.
Keto-Friendly: Opt for keto-friendly cheese and almond flour baskets.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Fresh salad, crunchy breadsticks
Garnishes: Lemon wedges, dill sprigs
Beverage Pairings: Chardonnay, sparkling water with lemon

Best Places

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