If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer for your Christmas or New Year’s party, look no further than these smoked salmon mousse tartlets. These bite-sized treats are made with flaky puff pastry shells filled with a creamy and savory mousse made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and fresh dill. They are perfect for serving with champagne or sparkling wine, and will impress your guests with their elegant presentation and rich flavor.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets, you will need the following ingredients:
- 24 frozen mini puff pastry shells (such as Pepperidge Farm)
- 8 oz (227 g) smoked salmon, chopped
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice
- 2 tsp (10 ml) fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Tools and Equipment
You will also need the following tools and equipment to make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets:
- A baking sheet
- A food processor or blender
- A piping bag with a star tip (or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off)
- A small knife
- A spoon
Recommended Products
We recommend using the following products to make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets:
- Pepperidge Farm Frozen Puff Pastry Shells
- Wild Planet Wild Sockeye Salmon
- Philadelphia Original Cream Cheese
- Daisy Sour Cream
- Simply Lemonade
Time Required
The time required to make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets is:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Mise en Place
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following things ready:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry shells according to the package directions and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Chop the smoked salmon and the fresh dill and set them aside.
- Soften the cream cheese in the microwave or at room temperature.
- Juice the lemon and measure out the sour cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets:
- Bake the puff pastry shells in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and dill. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the smoked salmon mousse to a piping bag with a star tip (or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off).
- Remove the puff pastry shells from the oven and let them cool slightly. Using a small knife, cut off the tops of the shells and scoop out some of the pastry inside to make room for the filling.
- Pipe the smoked salmon mousse into the shells, filling them generously. Garnish with more dill and parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serving Instructions
To serve these smoked salmon mousse tartlets, you can:
- Arrange them on a platter or a cake stand and serve with champagne or sparkling wine.
- Enjoy them as a starter or a snack, or as part of a buffet or a cocktail party.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Plating and Garnishing
To plate and garnish these smoked salmon mousse tartlets, you can:
- Sprinkle some more fresh dill and parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add some lemon wedges or slices for a touch of acidity and freshness.
- Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top for a hint of sweetness and contrast.
Tips and Notes
Here are some tips and notes to help you make these smoked salmon mousse tartlets:
- You can make the smoked salmon mousse ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just bring it to room temperature before piping it into the shells.
- You can also make the puff pastry shells ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before filling them.
- You can use any kind of smoked salmon you like, such as hot-smoked, cold-smoked, or lox. You can also substitute smoked trout or smoked mackerel for a different flavor.
- You can use fresh or dried dill, but fresh dill will give a more vibrant taste and aroma. You can also use other herbs, such as chives, parsley, or basil, to suit your preference.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice, sour cream, and cream cheese to make the mousse more or less tangy and creamy. You can also add some horseradish, mustard, or capers for some extra zing and texture.
Nutrition Facts
The nutrition facts for one smoked salmon mousse tartlet are:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
Disclaimer
This recipe is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health care provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. If you have any allergies or dietary concerns, please check the ingredients carefully and avoid any potential triggers. We are not responsible for any adverse reactions or consequences that may result from consuming this recipe. Enjoy responsibly and at your own risk.