Nigella Lawson Salmon en Croute is an elegant and flavorful dish that showcases the rich taste of salmon wrapped in a crispy, golden pastry. This recipe is a fantastic choice for special occasions, dinner parties, or any time you want to impress your guests with a sophisticated yet comforting meal.
In this article, I will show you how to make Nigella Lawson’s version of salmon en croute, which is simple, elegant, and full of flavor.
What is Nigella Salmon en Croute?
Nigella Salmon en Croute is a refined dish that showcases a salmon fillet encased in a buttery puff pastry. Inspired by Nigella Lawson, a renowned British chef and food writer, this recipe incorporates a blend of cream cheese, dill, and mustard to envelop the salmon, offering a harmonious mix of flavors. Finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture, it transforms a simple piece of salmon into a visually impressive and delightful meal, perfect for special occasions or a gourmet home-cooked dinner.
This dish serves 6-8 people and requires approximately an hour and a half to prepare, including both preparation and cooking time.
Other Salmon Recipes
- Hairy Bikers Salmon En Croute
- James Martin Salmon en Croute
- Hairy Bikers Salmon Coulibia
Why You Love This Recipe
- Simplicity and Elegance: Combines straightforward preparation with gourmet results.
- Flavorful Twist: The cream cheese, dill, and mustard filling provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the salmon.
- Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, from a family dinner to a festive gathering.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared in advance, freeing up time to focus on your guests.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden pastry and sesame seed topping make it a visually appealing dish.
Ingredients Needed to Make Nigella Salmon en Croute
- 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry (about 375g)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 250g cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill
- 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 150g each)
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
Useful Equipment
- A baking sheet
- A rolling pin
- A sharp knife
- A small bowl
- A fork
- A pastry brush
Instructions to Make Nigella Salmon en Croute
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cut the puff pastry sheet
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut it into four equal rectangles.
- You may need to roll it a bit thinner to fit the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Make the cream cheese filling
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, dill, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the pastry parcels
- Place a salmon fillet on one half of each pastry rectangle, leaving some space around the edges.
- Spoon a quarter of the cream cheese filling over each fillet and spread it evenly.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Cut a few slits on top of each pastry parcel to let the steam escape.
- Brush the parcels with the beaten egg and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top.
Step 5: Bake the salmon en croute
- Transfer the parcels to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- Enjoy your salmon en croute with some green salad, lemon wedges, and a glass of white wine.
- Bon appétit!
What Do I Serve With Nigella Salmon en Croute?
Pairing this dish with the right sides complements its rich flavors. A light green salad or steamed vegetables offer a refreshing balance, while new potatoes or a creamy potato gratin can round out a more indulgent meal. For a touch of acidity, serve with lemon wedges, and to enhance the dining experience, a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Nigella Salmon en Croute
- Pastry Thickness: Ensure the puff pastry is rolled evenly to avoid undercooked sections.
- Sealing Edges: Press the edges firmly with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking.
- Slitting the Top: Make slits on top to allow steam to escape, ensuring a crispy pastry.
- Egg Wash: Brush with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
- Resting Time: Let it rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Variations of Nigella Salmon en Croute
- Herb Varieties: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or chives for a new flavor profile.
- Spinach Addition: Incorporate spinach into the cream cheese mixture for an extra veggie boost.
- Seed Toppings: Try poppy seeds or nigella seeds instead of sesame for a different look and taste.
- Fish Alternatives: Substitute salmon with trout or halibut for a different seafood option.
How Do I Store Nigella Salmon en Croute Leftovers?
- Refrigeration: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How Do I Reheat Nigella Salmon en Croute Leftovers?
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Avoid the Microwave: Reheating in the microwave can make the pastry soggy, so it’s best avoided.
Nutrition value (per serving):
- Calories:481 kcal
- Fat:49 g
- Protein:25 g
- Carbs:50 g
FAQs
How Can I Prevent the Puff Pastry from Becoming Soggy in Nigella Salmon en Croute?
To prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy when making Nigella Salmon en Croute, ensure the salmon fillets are dry by patting them with paper towels before assembly. Additionally, spreading a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on the base of the pastry before adding the salmon can act as a barrier to moisture. Baking at a high temperature ensures the pastry cooks through and becomes crisp.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Nigella Salmon en Croute?
Nigella Salmon en Croute pairs beautifully with light and simple side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, green beans, or a zesty lemon and herb couscous. These sides offer a refreshing balance to the creamy and savory salmon filling.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for Nigella Salmon en Croute?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Nigella Salmon en Croute, but it must be completely thawed before use. To thaw the salmon, place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 12 hours. Ensure the salmon is thoroughly dried with paper towels after thawing to prevent any excess moisture from affecting the pastry.
Is It Possible to Make Nigella Salmon en Croute Without Dill?
Yes, it is possible to make Nigella Salmon en Croute without dill if you prefer or if dill is not available. You can substitute dill with other fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or tarragon. These herbs will still complement the salmon and cream cheese filling beautifully, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
Final Words
Nigella’s salmon en croute is a delicious and easy recipe that you can make for any occasion. It’s a great way to showcase your cooking skills and treat yourself and your loved ones to a fancy and satisfying meal.
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Nigella’s salmon en croute. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please let me know in the comment section below. I would love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
More By British Recipes Book:
- Mary Berry Broccoli and Stilton Soup
- Nigella Cauliflower Soup
- Delia Smith Broccoli and Stilton Soup
- Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup
- Delia Smith Smoked Mackerel Pâté
- Delia Smith Salmon En Croute
- Mary Berry Smoked Salmon Terrine
