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A festive season calls for appetizers that are both elegant and easy to prepare, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. These Christmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares combine the buttery, flaky goodness of puff pastry with the rich, savory flavor of smoked salmon. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or planning a cozy Christmas dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests while being delightfully simple to make.
Ready to create some holiday magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Appeal: These squares scream holiday vibes with their vibrant colors and sophisticated presentation.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and bake time make this a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or light brunch option.
- Delicious Flavor: The creamy base, smoky salmon, and fresh herbs create an unforgettable flavor profile.
The Taste of Christmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares
These little squares are a symphony of textures and flavors. The puff pastry is light and buttery, with a golden, flaky crunch. The cream cheese or sour cream base provides a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the smoky, salty richness of the salmon. Fresh dill or chives add an aromatic herbal lift, and optional red onion offers a hint of sweetness and crunch. They’re festive, flavorful, and anything but boring!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Puff Pastry Sheets: Store-bought puff pastry keeps things simple and convenient.
- Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: Acts as the creamy base, balancing the smoky flavors.
- Fresh Dill or Chives: Essential for a burst of freshness.
- Smoked Salmon: The star of the show! Choose high-quality slices for the best flavor.
- Red Onion (Optional): Adds a mild sweetness and crunch to enhance the overall dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking tray lined with parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Spatula for spreading
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Base Options: Substitute cream cheese with sour cream, crème fraîche, or mascarpone for a different creamy flavor.
- Herbs: Try parsley, tarragon, or even basil if dill or chives aren’t available.
- Toppings: Add capers, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of caviar for an extra gourmet touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-friendly version.
How to Make Christmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into even squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Base
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or sour cream over each square, leaving a small border to allow the edges to puff up beautifully.
Step 4: Top It Off
Sprinkle chopped dill or chives over the cream cheese. Layer thin slices of smoked salmon on top, and add red onion slices if desired.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the squares on the prepared baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crisp.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the squares cool slightly before transferring them to a serving platter. Garnish with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a final festive touch.
What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Squares
Pair these squares with a refreshing salad, sparkling wine, or holiday cocktails. They also complement other appetizers like bruschetta, cheese boards, or shrimp cocktails.
Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Squares
- Chill Your Pastry: Work quickly with puff pastry to keep it cold, ensuring maximum flakiness.
- Don’t Overload: Too many toppings can weigh down the pastry, so keep it light and balanced.
- Bake Until Golden: This ensures a crispy, flaky texture that’s irresistible.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the squares in advance and bake them fresh before serving.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Absolutely! Just thaw it according to the package instructions before rolling it out.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prep the squares ahead, but it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
What if I don’t like smoked salmon?
Try other toppings like prosciutto, roasted veggies, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
Why These Puff Pastry Squares Should Be Your Go-To Appetizer
These Christmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares are the ultimate holiday treat: they’re elegant, easy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for any gathering, they’re sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
If you loved this recipe, don’t miss these other festive appetizers:
- Mini Christmas Wreath with Smoked Salmon
- Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups
- Oh Christmas Brie Cheese Platter: A Festive Centerpiece for the Holidays
I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and experiences with me on Pinterest at EMMARECIPES18.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 250mg
Enjoy every flaky, smoky bite of these holiday delights!
PrintChristmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
Description
Christmas Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Pizza Squares are a festive and easy-to-make appetizer. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they feature flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese, and savory smoked salmon. Elegant, delicious, and ready in just 30 minutes, they’re sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese or sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or chives, finely chopped
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares.
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or sour cream on each square, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle with chopped dill or chives.
- Top with thin slices of smoked salmon and optional red onion.
- Place squares on the prepared baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add capers or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
- These are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday, Festive
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg