Salmon Mousse: A Luxurious Appetizer Recipe for Every Occasion
If you’re looking to impress your guests with an elegant yet simple appetizer, this salmon mousse recipe is just what you need. With its creamy texture, delightful flavors, and sophisticated presentation, this dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a casual get-together. The delicate blend of smoked salmon, ricotta, and fresh cream, paired with crispy black bread, creates a balanced contrast of flavors that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Servings: 6
Category: Appetizers
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked salmon | 100g |
| Ricotta cheese | 250g |
| Fresh cream (liquid) | 100ml |
| Fresh dill | 6 sprigs |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Black bread slices | 7 slices |
| Fish roe (or caviar substitute) | to taste |
| Fresh dill (for garnish) | to taste |
Nutritional Information
Per Serving
(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient specifics)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base
Start by finely chopping the smoked salmon using a food processor. The texture should be smooth, but still with a slight chunky consistency for added texture in the mousse. Transfer the salmon to a mixing bowl. -
Add the Ricotta
Add the ricotta cheese to the bowl with the salmon. Use a spatula to combine these two ingredients until smooth. The ricotta will add a rich, creamy texture to the mousse, complementing the smokiness of the salmon. -
Incorporate Fresh Dill
Wash and finely chop the fresh dill. Add it to the ricotta and salmon mixture, stirring gently to ensure the dill is evenly distributed. The dill will bring a refreshing, slightly tangy note to the mousse, elevating the overall flavor. -
Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste. Since smoked salmon can be salty, be sure to adjust the amount of salt accordingly. Mix well and taste the mixture to ensure the seasoning is balanced. -
Whip the Fresh Cream
In a separate bowl, pour the fresh cream and whip it until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to become too thick and lose its light texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the salmon mixture using a spatula. The goal is to maintain the fluffiness of the cream without deflating it, resulting in a light, airy mousse. -
Prepare the Crostini
Using a round cutter (a flower-shaped cutter works beautifully for a more elegant touch), cut out shapes from the slices of black bread. You can opt for larger or smaller pieces depending on your desired presentation. Next, toast the bread slices in a preheated oven or in a non-stick skillet until golden brown and crispy. The contrast between the crunchy crostini and the smooth mousse will create a delightful bite. -
Assemble the Mousse
Once the crostini are ready and cooled slightly, spread the salmon mousse generously over the top of each slice. For a more refined presentation, you can pipe the mousse onto the bread using a pastry bag fitted with a star nozzle, creating decorative swirls that add an extra touch of elegance. -
Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing the mousse with fresh sprigs of dill and a few small dollops of fish roe (or caviar substitute) on top. The roe adds a luxurious, salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mousse. Serve immediately to ensure the freshness and texture of the dish.
Pro Tips
- For a festive touch: If you want to make this dish even more special, you can prepare the mousse in advance and chill it in the fridge for a few hours. The flavors will meld together beautifully, and the mousse will be even more creamy.
- Caviar alternatives: If you can’t find fish roe or prefer not to use it, feel free to swap it out for finely chopped capers or a few extra sprigs of dill.
- Customizing the mousse: While this recipe uses smoked salmon, you can try experimenting with other types of smoked fish, such as trout or mackerel, for different flavor profiles.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Mousse
Not only is this appetizer visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, the salmon mousse will add sophistication to any table. The blend of creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, combined with the richness of smoked salmon and the crispiness of the bread, offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it takes minimal preparation time, making it an ideal option for those looking to create an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Enjoy making this exquisite Salmon Mousse, and let it bring a touch of luxury to your next meal!
