Here’s a recipe for Individual Salmon Wellingtons, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions. These flaky puff pastry parcels are filled with tender salmon, creamy spinach, and rich flavors.
Ingredients
(Makes 4 servings)
For the Salmon and Pastry:
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (4-6 oz each)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or thawed and drained frozen spinach)
- 3 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shallot and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (or heated through if using frozen). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the spinach mixture with cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Wellingtons:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 4 equal squares.
- Place a salmon fillet in the center of each square.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the spinach filling over the top of each salmon piece.
- Fold the puff pastry over the salmon, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Trim any excess pastry and place the seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add the Egg Wash:
- Brush the beaten egg over the top and sides of each pastry to ensure a golden, flaky crust.
- Bake the Wellingtons:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the salmon Wellingtons for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or lemony asparagus for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: Assemble the Wellingtons up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh before serving.
- Customize the Filling: Add mushrooms, fresh dill, or a touch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors.
- For a Fancy Touch: Score the tops of the pastry with a sharp knife for a decorative pattern before baking.
This dish is a stunning and delicious way to elevate your salmon dinner!