Smoked Salmon Potato Cakes with Herb Infusion

Potato Cake with Smoked Salmon – A Delicious Antipasto

Introduction

If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple antipasto to impress your guests, look no further than this Potato Cake with Smoked Salmon recipe. This dish combines the comforting texture of soft, mashed potatoes with the rich, smoky flavor of salmon, creating a perfect balance of tastes and textures. Each little cake is filled with fresh herbs and an indulgent center of smoked salmon, offering a satisfying bite that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself and your family, this dish is ideal as an appetizer or a light side dish.

Servings: 7

Perfect for sharing with friends or family, this recipe yields 7 individual potato cakes, each packed with flavor and a delightful bite.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the herbs and garlic
   Begin by finely chopping the fresh herbs. This includes the chives, parsley, rosemary, and sage. Peel the garlic clove and mince it as finely as possible. Set both the herbs and garlic aside for later use.

2. Cook the potatoes
   Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water, scrubbing them gently with your hands to remove any dirt. Place them in a pot filled with water, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Boil them for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and fully cooked through. Drain the water and set the potatoes aside to cool slightly.

3. Mash the potatoes
   Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them and place them in a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or a potato ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and lump-free.

4. Mix the ingredients
   Add the 2 eggs to the mashed potatoes, followed by the finely chopped herbs, garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

5. Prepare the molds
   Take 7 small baking molds (each should be approximately 125ml in capacity). Lightly grease each mold with butter, using a pastry brush for even coverage. Then, dust the insides with breadcrumbs, making sure to coat them well to prevent sticking.

6. Assemble the potato cakes
   Using a spoon, fill each mold with the mashed potato mixture, pressing it down gently with the back of the spoon to ensure the potatoes adhere to the bottom and sides of the molds. Leave a small space in the center of each mold for the smoked salmon.

7. Add the smoked salmon
   Cut the smoked salmon into thin slices and place 2-3 slices in the center of each potato cake. Gently cover the salmon with additional mashed potato mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure it is sealed inside.

8. Drizzle with olive oil
   Once the molds are filled, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the top of each potato cake. This will help them become golden and crispy during baking.

9. Bake the potato cakes
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if using a conventional oven or 160°C (325°F) if using a fan-assisted (convection) oven. Place the molds in the oven and bake for 40 minutes in a static oven or 35 minutes in a fan oven, until the potato cakes are golden and crisp on top.

10. Remove and serve
    Once the potato cakes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Carefully turn each mold upside down to release the cakes. Serve them warm or at room temperature as a delicious antipasto or a unique side dish. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or a refreshing dip.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

Tips and Variations:

• Herb Variations: Feel free to mix up the herbs in this recipe depending on what you have on hand. Tarragon or dill can add a unique twist, especially if you prefer a slightly more aromatic flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon or prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace it with cooked vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or even cheese.
• Make Ahead: These potato cakes can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just make sure to add the olive oil right before baking to ensure a crispy crust.

This Potato Cake with Smoked Salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of appetizers. The creamy, herb-infused mashed potatoes and smoky salmon create a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for a holiday or gathering, or simply treating yourself to a homemade delight, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delectable combination of comfort and sophistication in each bite!