surimi paste and tuna paste

Delicious surimi and tuna pâtés with toasted bread and smoked salmon

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

When it comes to quick and tasty lunches, pâtés are always an inspired choice. Today, we will create two types of pâtés: one from surimi and one from tuna, which pair perfectly with crispy toasted bread and smoked salmon. These dishes are not only quick to prepare but also full of flavors, ideal for a light yet satisfying meal.

A brief history

Pâtés have a long history, being an ingenious way to use various ingredients and transform them into delicious dishes. They are often associated with festive meals but can be adapted for any occasion. Whether you want an elegant appetizer or a quick snack, pâtés are versatility on a plate.

Ingredients

For the surimi pâté:
- 15 surimi sticks
- ½ onion
- ½ pickled cucumber
- 3 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the tuna pâté:
- 2 cans of natural tuna (in water)
- ½ onion
- 5-6 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:
- Toasted bread
- Smoked salmon (fillet)
- Boiled eggs (for garnish)
- Arugula (for decoration)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the surimi pâté:
- Start by breaking the surimi sticks into smaller pieces to make them easier to process.
- Add the surimi to a blender along with ½ chopped onion, ½ pickled cucumber, and the 3 sprigs of parsley.
- Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Make sure not to over-blend, so you don't get too fine a texture.

2. Adding the seasonings:
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Mix well to incorporate the mayonnaise.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, being careful to taste as you adjust the flavors.

3. Preparing the tuna pâté:
- In another bowl, add the 2 cans of drained tuna.
- Add ½ onion, 5-6 sprigs of parsley, and also 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
- Blend the ingredients until you achieve a creamy consistency, similar to the surimi one. Adjust with salt and pepper.

4. Assembly:
- Toast slices of bread until golden and crispy.
- On each slice of bread, spread a generous layer of surimi or tuna pâté, as preferred.
- Add a few slices of smoked salmon on top for an extra flavor boost.

5. Garnishing:
- Boil a few eggs, placing them in salted water to prevent cracking. Once boiled, let them cool, then slice them.
- Decorate the pâtés with slices of boiled egg and a few arugula leaves for a fresh and appetizing look.

Useful tips

- For a fluffier texture: You can add a bit of Greek yogurt instead of part of the mayonnaise. This will reduce calories and add a note of acidity.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fish, such as smoked tuna or salmon. You can also add olives or bell peppers for an extra flavor boost.
- Storage: The pâtés can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

Nutritional information

Calories for one serving (1 slice of toasted bread with pâté and smoked salmon) are approximately 250-300 kcal, depending on the amount of mayonnaise and salmon used. These pâtés are rich in protein due to the tuna and surimi, and the parsley adds vitamins such as vitamin C and K.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of fish? Absolutely! You can experiment with sardines or other canned fish, but make sure to adjust the seasonings to match the desired flavor.
- What drinks pair well with these pâtés? A fresh lemonade or a glass of dry white wine pairs perfectly with the flavors of this meal.

Personal note

This dish is perfect for a day when you don't have much time but want to treat yourself to something tasty. It reminds me of moments spent with family when we prepared such appetizers for gatherings with friends. Each bite brings memories and joy, and the combination of flavors is nothing short of delightful.

Try this simple and quick recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavor of these surimi and tuna pâtés. It may become one of your favorite quick lunch recipes or festive meals!