Cheese and Smoked Salmon Canapés

Cheese and Smoked Salmon Canapés are delightful bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for any gathering or special occasion. These savory treats combine the richness of Džiugas cheese with the delicate flavor of smoked salmon, creating a balance that is both sophisticated and comforting. The golden-brown mini rounds of cheesy bread provide a perfect base, while the zesty lemon butter adds a refreshing tang to every bite. Topped with a sliver of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of fresh salad leaves, these canapés are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, a holiday celebration, or a casual get-together, these canapés will surely impress your guests. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a bit of preparation and baking time. You can even make them in advance, saving you precious time on the day of the event. With these canapés, you'll deliver flavors that are simple yet indulgent, making your occasion all the more memorable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/5 cup cornmeal
• 1 pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pack of butter (at room temperature)
• 2 cups grated Džiugas cheese
• 3/4 cup kefir
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• A handful of your favorite salad leaves
• 100g smoked salmon
• Zest of 1 lemon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix them together until well combined.

3. Add Butter: Add half a pack of the softened butter into the dry ingredients. Use your fingers to blend it, creating a crumbly texture.

4. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Džiugas cheese until it's evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

5. Wet Ingredients: Pour in the kefir and olive oil into the dry mixture. Mix until you achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough.

6. Form the Dough: Use a spoon to scoop small amounts, forming dough balls the size of ping-pong balls.

7. Bake the Rounds: Place the dough balls on the prepared tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Watch them closely to avoid over-baking. Once the tops are brown, remove them immediately.

8. Cool the Bread: Take the cheese rounds out of the oven and allow them to cool completely before further preparation.

9. Prepare Lemon Butter: Mix the remaining butter with the grated lemon zest in a small bowl until fully combined.

10. Slice the Rounds: Once the rounds are cooled, slice each one horizontally into two halves.

11. Add Butter: Spread a thin layer of lemon butter on the cut side of each half.

12. Assemble the Canapés: Place a few salad leaves and a slice of smoked salmon on the bottom half of each round.

13. Cover: Top it with the other half of the bread round to make a delicious sandwich.

14. Presentation: Arrange the canapés on a serving platter for an inviting presentation.

15. Serve: Ready to delight your guests with these flavorful bites.

Tips

• Butter Room Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Cheese: Substitute Džiugas with other hard cheeses such as Parmesan if unavailable.
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for better flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: 150 per canapé
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace salmon with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for added flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for those with gluten intolerance.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Crisp White Wine: Such as a Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing complement.
• Add a Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed green salad pairs beautifully.

Best Places

1. Le Bernardin - Renowned for exquisite seafood. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
2. Maison Troisgros - Known for classic French cuisine. Location: 1 Place Jean Troisgros, Ouches, France.
3. St. John Restaurant - Celebrated for traditional British canapés. Location: 26 St John St, London, UK.
4. Narisawa - Fusion of Japanese and French culinary arts. Location: 2-6-15 Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.
5. The French Laundry - A Californian icon with impeccable attention to detail. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
6. Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester - Offers luxurious dining blends. Location: 53 Park Lane, London, UK.
7. Mirazur - Known for Mediterranean views and seafood. Location: 30 Av. Aristide Briand, Menton, France.
8. Pujol - Famous for its modern Mexican cuisine. Location: Tennyson 133, Mexico City, Mexico.
9. Gaggan - Celebrates progressive Indian dishes. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
10. Attica - For its creative Australian menus. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.

These cheese and smoked salmon canapés are sure to be a hit at your next event, providing elegance in a bite-sized package. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones!