Elevate your next gathering with a culinary delight that’s as stunning as it is delicious: Smoked Salmon and Parmesan Cream Cups! These elegant little bites are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests at any occasion. With a luscious blend of creamy cheeses, zesty lemon, and the rich flavor of smoked salmon, each cup is a burst of flavor that will leave everyone craving more. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this Italian-inspired appetizer that’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight at your next event. Ready to dive into this delectable recipe? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Smoked salmon, sliced
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Cream cheese
- Fresh dill
- Mini phyllo pastry cups
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your workspace by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help in achieving a smooth and creamy filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add a splash of lemon juice to the cheese mixture. This will enhance the flavors and add a refreshing tang. Mix well to incorporate the lemon juice evenly.
- Finely chop a handful of fresh dill and fold it into the cheese mixture. Reserve a few sprigs for garnish later. The dill will add a wonderful herbal note to the filling.
- Take the mini phyllo pastry cups and place them on a serving platter. These cups will hold the creamy filling beautifully.
- Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each phyllo pastry cup with the cream cheese and Parmesan mixture. Be generous but ensure not to overfill.
- Carefully place a slice of smoked salmon on top of each filled cup. The smoky flavor of the salmon will complement the creamy filling perfectly.
- Garnish each cup with a small sprig of fresh dill for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time before serving. These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but can be made a little in advance for convenience.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and Parmesan cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on the lemon juice! A splash not only brightens the flavors but also balances the richness of the cheeses.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh dill for the best flavor. If you can’t find dill, fresh chives or parsley can be great alternatives, adding their own unique twist.
- Filling Technique: When filling the phyllo cups, use a piping bag for a neat and professional look. If you don’t have one, a small spoon works just fine—just be careful not to overfill!
- Serving Suggestions: These cups are best served immediately, but you can prepare the filling ahead of time. Just assemble the cups right before serving to keep the pastry crisp.
- Garnish Wisely: Reserve a few sprigs of dill for garnishing to enhance the presentation and add a touch of freshness to each bite.
- Chill for Flavor: If you have time, let the filled cups chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg
