Smoked salmon millefeuille with lime sorbet is an exquisite and refreshing starter that combines the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with the tangy freshness of lime. The millefeuille, traditionally a French pastry made of layers of thin pastry sheets, is here reinvented using layers of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and other delicate ingredients. The lime sorbet, a zesty and cooling addition, provides the perfect contrast to the savory layers. This dish is ideal for a sophisticated dinner party or as a special treat to start off a holiday meal.
Ingredients
For the Smoked Salmon Millefeuille:
- 200g smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 100g cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp capers, drained and chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lime Sorbet:
- 200ml fresh lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
- 100g granulated sugar (about 1/2 cup)
- 200ml water (about 3/4 cup)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1 egg white (optional, for added texture)
For Garnish:
- Fresh dill sprigs
- Lime zest
- Thin slices of cucumber (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lime Sorbet
- Start by making the lime sorbet. In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and lime zest. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Once the sugar syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Stir in the fresh lime juice. If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the sorbet reaches a smooth, frozen texture.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the ice crystals, repeating this process until the sorbet is frozen and fluffy. If you want a smoother texture, you can whisk in a beaten egg white before freezing to create a creamier sorbet.
- Once done, set the sorbet aside in the freezer while you prepare the millefeuille.
Step 2: Assemble the Smoked Salmon Millefeuille
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped dill, lemon juice, capers (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy layer that holds the millefeuille together.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the smoked salmon slices into smaller rectangular pieces, roughly the size of the serving glasses or plates you’re using.
- On a serving plate, layer the smoked salmon, spreading a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture between each slice of salmon. Alternate the layers until you have a small tower of smoked salmon and cream cheese.
- Repeat this process for each serving if you’re creating individual portions or assemble one large millefeuille for sharing. The salmon should be stacked neatly, creating a “puff pastry” effect with the creamy filling in between.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
- Place a spoonful of lime sorbet beside the millefeuille, or, for a more elegant presentation, scoop the sorbet into small quenelles (oval shapes) using two spoons.
- Garnish the smoked salmon millefeuille with fresh dill sprigs, extra lime zest, and thin cucumber slices for a refreshing touch.
- Serve immediately, allowing your guests to enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Tips for Success
- Sorbet consistency: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, the key to a good sorbet is frequent stirring during the freezing process. This helps break up any ice crystals and keeps the sorbet smooth.
- Smoked salmon quality: The flavor of the smoked salmon will greatly impact the dish. Choose a high-quality smoked salmon that’s fresh and flavorful for the best result.
- Dill substitution: If you don’t have dill, fresh chives or tarragon can be used as alternatives to add a light, herbal flavor.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare both the smoked salmon millefeuille and lime sorbet in advance. The millefeuille can be assembled a few hours before serving, while the sorbet can be made the day before.
Smoked salmon millefeuille with lime sorbet is a unique and sophisticated dish that will elevate any meal. The combination of smooth, creamy layers of smoked salmon with the refreshing and tangy lime sorbet offers a perfect balance of rich and zesty flavors. Whether for a special occasion or an elegant dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its complexity and elegance.
With a little preparation, this dish becomes an easy yet luxurious starter, providing a fresh and flavorful way to begin a festive meal or a romantic evening. Enjoy the contrast of textures, from the velvety cream cheese and the smoky salmon to the bright, cooling sorbet!