Flaky Salmon Surprise
Description
This Flaky Salmon Surprise transforms simple pantry staples into an elegant, comforting dish. The star is a rich, velvety filling made from flaked pink salmon, fresh cucumber, and a touch of tarragon, all bound together with a light roux-based cream sauce. Encased in golden, buttery puff pastry, these individual savory pies offer a delightful contrast of textures: the crisp, shattering crust against the smooth, creamy interior. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and subtle brightness that cuts through the richness of the salmon and sour cream. Perfect for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this recipe is surprisingly easy to assemble. It brings a home-style warmth to the table while feeling special enough for guests. Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the indulgent pastry.Directions
-
Preheat the oven to 220°C (450°F) or Gas Mark 8.
-
Drain the canned salmon, reserving the liquid juice in a small bowl.
-
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 cm (1/4 inch).
-
Cut the pastry into four rounds, each approximately 8.5 cm (3 inches) in diameter.
-
Place the pastry rounds on a dampened baking sheet, rolled side down, and let them stand for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
-
Brush the top surface of each pastry round with a little milk.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
-
Remove from the oven and allow the pastry cases to cool completely.
-
While the pastry bakes, sprinkle the diced cucumber with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
-
Rinse the cucumber thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt, then pat dry with paper towels.
-
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
-
Stir in the flour to form a paste, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
-
Gradually whisk in the reserved salmon juice and the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth sauce.
-
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the rinsed cucumber, sour cream, chopped tarragon, and flaked salmon.
-
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined and the filling is creamy.
-
Using a sharp knife, cut each cooled pastry round horizontally into three slices (a bottom, middle, and top layer).
-
Spoon half of the salmon filling onto the bottom pastry layers.
-
Place the middle pastry layers on top of the filling.
-
Spoon the remaining salmon filling over the middle layers.
-
Top with the remaining pastry lids to complete the sandwiches.
-
Serve immediately while the pastry is still crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1396kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 48g74%
- Saturated Fat 27g135%
- Cholesterol 88mg30%
- Sodium 2406mg101%
- Total Carbohydrate 150g50%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 114g
- Protein 92g184%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.