Smoked salmon appetizer

Smoked Salmon Appetizer: A Delicacy You Can't Refuse

Who doesn't love a refined and delicious appetizer to whet the appetite? Today, I propose you prepare an elegant smoked salmon appetizer, perfect for any occasion, from a dinner with friends to a sophisticated party. This recipe is specially dedicated to Ina, who inspired us to create a smoked salmon dish at her request. It is an appetizer that not only looks good but also tastes exceptional.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Required ingredients:

- 400 g high-quality smoked salmon
- 200 g cream cheese (an herbed variant is ideal)
- 3-4 green onions (the green parts are the most useful)
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 100 g long, plain grissini (or with sesame, if you prefer)
- 100 g black and green olives, for serving
- 1-2 white radishes, for decoration
- Sweet and sour pickled chives, for a flavor contrast
- Toothpicks for serving

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cream cheese: Start by finely chopping the green onion leaves and parsley. These fresh herbs not only add a refined taste to the dish but also a vibrant appearance. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the chopped green onion and parsley. Make sure the ingredients are well integrated, achieving a uniform and creamy composition.

2. Preparing the salmon: Choose slices of high-quality smoked salmon, as its aroma and texture are essential for the recipe. The slices should be thin but not so thin that they break during handling.

3. Assembling the appetizer: Take a slice of smoked salmon and place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture on it using a teaspoon. Spread the cream evenly, leaving a 1-2 cm margin free so it doesn't spill during rolling.

4. Rolling: Carefully twist the salmon around a grissini, being careful not to press too hard to avoid ruining the shape. The rolling should be tight enough to keep the filling inside but loose enough not to tear the salmon. Continue with the remaining slices of salmon and cream cheese.

5. Plating: Arrange the rolls on an elegant platter. Add the black and green olives, sliced radishes, and pickled chives alongside. These not only add a contrast of colors but also a variety of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the appetizer.

6. Serving: Use toothpicks to secure the salmon rolls, making them easier to serve and eat. You can serve them immediately or keep them in the fridge for an hour, but no longer, to avoid softening the grissini.

Practical tips:

- Choose the salmon carefully: Select high-quality smoked salmon that has a rich flavor and is not too salty. This will make the difference between a good appetizer and an excellent one.
- Customize the recipe: You can add additional herbs to the cream cheese, such as dill or basil, for an extra flavor boost. You can also try using goat cheese for a stronger taste.
- Healthy substitutions: If you want a healthier option, you can opt for low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, thus creating a lighter appetizer.

Nutritional benefits:
Smoked salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals from parsley and green onions contribute to a balanced diet. This appetizer is also ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy diet, with a moderate caloric intake of about 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of fish? Of course! You can experiment with tuna or smoked herring for different flavors.
2. How can I store the appetizer? It is recommended to consume it fresh, but you can keep the rolls in the fridge for up to an hour.
3. What drinks pair well with this appetizer? A dry white wine or a gin-based cocktail will perfectly complement the flavors of the smoked salmon.

In conclusion, this smoked salmon appetizer is not only easy to prepare but also fantastically delicious! Ideal for impressing guests or for a relaxing evening at home, this recipe is worth trying at least once. Once you've tried them, you'll want to make them again and again. So, put on your apron and get ready to become a true appetizer master!