Cream cheese with salmon

Cream Cheese with Salmon - A Refined Snack for Special Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

In the culinary world, the combination of cheese with smoked salmon is one of the most appreciated and elegant. This cream cheese with salmon recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, suitable as an appetizer for a festive meal, a light snack for a relaxing evening, or even at a family lunch. With a delicious taste and creamy texture, it is a perfect choice to impress any guest.

A Brief Story
Cream cheese with salmon has deep roots in culinary traditions, evolving over time to adapt to different culinary cultures. Although the ingredients may vary, the essence remains the same: a harmonious blend of flavors that brings together creamy cheese and smoked salmon. This dish has become popular due to its ease of preparation and infinite serving possibilities.

Necessary Ingredients
- 150 g smoked salmon
- 250 g cream cheese
- 150 g creamy yogurt (optional, for a lighter texture)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 green onion or a medium red onion (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- A few sprigs of fresh basil (or dried, depending on preference)

Useful Tips for Ingredients
- Smoked Salmon: Choose high-quality salmon to ensure an intense and pleasant flavor. The salmon can be cut into strips or cubes, depending on preference.
- Cheese: A good quality cream cheese will make a difference in the final texture and taste of the dish. You can use cottage cheese or ricotta for a lighter flavor.
- Yogurt: Using yogurt adds a note of freshness and lightness. Choose natural yogurt without additives for the best results.
- Basil: If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried herbs can work well, but the flavor will be less intense.

Step by Step - Preparing the Cream
1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by cutting the salmon into small strips and the green onion into thin rounds. If using fresh basil, chop it finely.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and yogurt. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend the mixture until smooth. It is important for the ingredients to be well integrated so the cream has a uniform texture.

3. Adding Flavors: Pour the lemon juice into the mixture and mix well. The lemon juice not only gives a fresh taste but also helps preserve the color of the ingredients.

4. Incorporating Salmon and Vegetables: Add the cut salmon and onion (if you choose to use it) to the cream cheese. Gently mix to avoid breaking the salmon strips.

5. Final Mixing: Use an electric mixer to achieve a creamy and airy consistency, mixing for 2-3 minutes.

6. Chilling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the cream chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld and achieve a firmer texture.

Serving
Cream cheese with salmon is served cold, ideally on slices of dark bread or seeded baguettes. Give it an attractive appearance by garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves or thin slices of lemon. This snack can be accompanied by a glass of white wine or a light cocktail, enhancing the delicate flavors of the dish.

Combinations and Variations
- Fish Variations: You can substitute salmon with tuna or herring for a different flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate chopped olives, red peppers, or cucumbers for a crunchy note.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as dill or red pepper, to add more complexity to the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This cream cheese with salmon recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, while cheese and yogurt provide calcium and essential proteins for the body. Any added vegetables will contribute fiber and vitamins, making this snack a healthy choice.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Yes, but you will need to cook the salmon before adding it to the cream. Smoked salmon brings a distinct flavor that cannot be easily replicated.

2. How can I store the cream cheese with salmon?
The cream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is tightly covered.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
No, as it contains salmon. However, you can adapt the recipe by omitting the fish and adding vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion
Cream cheese with salmon is a quick and simple recipe, yet extremely refined, perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and a few minutes of work, you will create a delicious snack that will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Enjoy the cooking moment and don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients to create the perfect version for you!