Save It A festive and elegant platter featuring savory puff pastry stars, smoked salmon, and fresh herbed cream cheese, perfect for celebrating the end of the year.
This dish always impresses guests at our year-end celebrations with its combination of flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- For the Puff Pastry Stars: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed, 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash), 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- For the Herbed Cream Cheese: 200 g cream cheese, softened, 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, salt and pepper, to taste
- For Assembly: 150 g smoked salmon, sliced, 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced, 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed, fresh dill sprigs, for garnish, lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Cut Stars:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars and place them on the prepared tray.
- Egg Wash:
- Brush each star with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and puffed. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare Cream Cheese:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, dill, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Slice Stars:
- Once stars are cool, carefully slice them in half horizontally.
- Assemble:
- Spread a generous layer of herbed cream cheese on the bottom half of each star.
- Add Toppings:
- Top with smoked salmon slices, cucumber, and a few capers. Place the top half of the star on each.
- Serve:
- Arrange on a festive platter. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and serve with lemon wedges.
Save It This recipe brings back warm memories of family gatherings around the holidays, sharing laughter and delicious bites.
Required Tools
Star-shaped cookie cutter, baking tray, mixing bowl, spatula, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (puff pastry), milk (cream cheese), egg, and fish (smoked salmon). Always check product labels if sensitive to allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 16 g, Protein: 10 g per serving
Save It Enjoy this elegant appetizer as a highlight to your festive celebrations that’s both flavorful and visually stunning.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How can I make the puff pastry stars extra crispy?
Ensure the oven is fully preheated to 200°C (400°F) and bake the stars until golden brown. Using an egg wash before baking helps achieve a shiny, crispy finish.
- → Can I prepare the herbed cream cheese in advance?
Yes, the herbed cream cheese can be mixed a few hours ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld. Bring it to room temperature before assembling.
- → What are good alternates for smoked salmon?
You can substitute smoked salmon with smoked trout or try marinated tofu for a vegetarian variation to keep the savory flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the puff pastry stars from becoming soggy after assembly?
Allow the baked stars to cool completely before spreading cream cheese and adding toppings. Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → What garnish pairs best with this dish?
Fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges complement the flavors well and add a bright, fresh touch to the platter.