This smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich is a classic recipe with a twist. The recipe combines the rich taste of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese, amplified by the unique sharpness of wasabi and the freshness of scallions and watercress. Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, making this sandwich a gourmet delight that can be prepared right at home.
The ingredients used in this recipe are generally simple and can be found in most supermarkets. However, wasabi powder and crème fraiche may not be in every household pantry. Wasabi powder is a type of Japanese horseradish known for its sharp, pungent flavor. It can usually be found in the Asian section of grocery stores or in a specialty store. Crème fraiche is a sour cream-like dairy product that has a richer and less tangy flavor compared to regular sour cream. It's usually found in the dairy section or can be substituted with sour cream if unavailable.
Ingredients for Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich
Sesame seeds: These add a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor to the sandwich. Salmon: A rich source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, contributes a smoky flavor to the sandwich. Wasabi powder: A Japanese horseradish powder that adds a spicy kick. Ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Crème fraiche: A sour cream-like dairy product, adds richness. Cream cheese: Provides a creamy, smooth texture and a slight tanginess. Scallions: Also known as green onions, add a mild, sweet onion flavor. Watercress: Adds a peppery crispness to balance out the creaminess. White sandwich bread: Forms the base of the sandwich, holding everything together.
One reader, Ed Leggett says:
This smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine, and the creamy texture is irresistible. The sesame seed coating adds a delightful crunch. It's a must-try for any salmon lover!
Techniques for Making a Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich
How to toast sesame seeds: In a small skillet, toast the sesame seeds over moderate heat, shaking the pan, until light golden. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
How to make salmon mixture: In a food processor, combine the salmon, wasabi, ginger, and crème fraîche and pulse until smooth. Transfer to a bowl.
How to make scallion cream cheese: Add the cream cheese, scallions, and watercress to the processor and puree until smooth. Season with salt and white pepper.
How to assemble the sandwiches: Spread a scant tablespoon of the scallion cream cheese onto each of 3 slices of bread. Spread a scant tablespoon of the salmon mixture onto each of 2 slices of bread. Stack the bread, beginning and ending with a scallion layer, then top the stack with a plain slice of bread and press to close.
How to trim and cut the sandwiches: Using a sharp serrated knife, trim off the crusts. Cut each sandwich stack in half. Spread scallion cream cheese over the long side of each sandwich half, then dip the long sides into the toasted sesame seeds, pressing to coat. Cut each sandwich half into 4 smaller sandwiches, leaving 1 side coated with sesame seeds. Transfer the sandwiches to a plate and serve.
How To Make Smoked Salmon and Scallion Tea Sandwiches
Tea sandwiches are dainty little snacks that are perfect with your afternoon tea. This recipe has the sophisticated flavors of smoked salmon and scallions.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupsesame seeds
- ¾lbsalmon,sliced, smoked
- 1½tspwasabi powder mixed,(with 1½ tsp water)
- 1tspfresh ginger,finely grated
- ¼cupcrème fraiche
- ¾lbcream cheese
- 4scallions
- ¼cupwatercress leaves,finely chopped
- kosher salt and freshly ground white pepper
- 24slicewhite sandwich bread,(thin)
Instructions
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In a small skillet, toast the sesame seeds over moderate heat, shaking the pan, until light golden.
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Transfer to a plate and let cool.
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In a food processor, combine the salmon, wasabi, ginger and crème fraîche and pulse until smooth.
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Transfer to a bowl.
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Add the cream cheese, scallions and watercress to the processor and puree until smooth.
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Season with salt and white pepper
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Using a small spatula, spread a scant tablespoon of the scallion cream cheese onto each of 3 slices of bread
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Spread a scant tablespoon of the salmon mixture onto each of 2 slices of bread
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Stack the bread, beginning and ending with a scallion layer; top the stack with a plain slice of bread and press to close
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Repeat with the remaining bread, scallion cream cheese and salmon mixture to form 4 sandwich stacks.
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Using a sharp serrated knife, trim off the crusts.
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Cut each sandwich stack in half.
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Spread scallion cream cheese over the long side of each sandwich half, then dip the long sides into the toasted sesame seeds, pressing to coat.
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Cut each sandwich half into 4 smaller sandwiches, leaving 1 side coated with sesame seeds
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Transfer the sandwiches to a plate and serve
Nutrition
- Calories: 4069.91kcal
- Fat: 213.78g
- Saturated Fat: 90.39g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 55.99g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 36.90g
- Carbohydrates: 368.54g
- Fiber: 34.05g
- Sugar: 55.22g
- Protein: 173.32g
- Cholesterol: 590.44mg
- Sodium: 5022.42mg
- Calcium: 1761.21mg
- Potassium: 3408.76mg
- Iron: 33.03mg
- Vitamin A: 1387.35µg
- Vitamin C: 31.90mg
Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich
When toasting the sesame seeds, keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly. The seeds are ready when they turn a light golden color and emit a nutty aroma. Also, when spreading the salmon and scallion cream cheese mixtures onto the bread, ensure to spread it evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite. Lastly, when cutting the sandwiches, use a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to prevent squishing the bread and losing the fillings.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-made components: Consider using pre-made components such as store-bought cream cheese and pre-sliced salmon to save time and effort.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as toasting the sesame seeds while preparing the other components of the recipe.
Organize your workspace: Keep your workspace organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for tools and ingredients during the cooking process.
Plan ahead: Plan your steps in advance and visualize the recipe to optimize the cooking flow and minimize time-consuming errors.
Efficient assembly: Opt for efficient assembly methods to streamline the sandwich-making process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Smoked Salmon With Cream Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
sesame seeds - Substitute with poppy seeds: Poppy seeds have a similar nutty flavor and texture to sesame seeds, and can provide a delicious crunch to the dish.
salmon - Substitute with smoked trout: Smoked trout has a similar smoky flavor and delicate texture to smoked salmon, making it a great alternative for this sandwich recipe.
wasabi powder - Substitute with horseradish powder: Horseradish powder can provide a similar pungent kick as wasabi powder, adding a zesty flavor to the cream cheese.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor to the dish.
crème fraiche - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream can be used as a substitute for crème fraiche, providing a tangy and creamy element to the sandwich.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to cream cheese in this recipe.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor to scallions and can be used as a garnish for the sandwich.
watercress leaves - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can provide a peppery and slightly bitter flavor similar to watercress, adding a fresh and vibrant element to the sandwich.
Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Smoked Salmon Sandwich
- Elevate the sandwich: Carefully cut the sandwiches into smaller, bite-sized portions to create an elegant and refined presentation.
- Incorporate color contrast: Arrange the sandwiches on a platter, ensuring a visually appealing contrast between the white bread, pink salmon, and green watercress.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few delicate sprigs of fresh dill or chives over the platter to add a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- Utilize symmetry: Arrange the sandwiches in a symmetrical pattern on the platter to create a visually pleasing and balanced presentation.
- Add a touch of luxury: Consider serving the sandwiches on individual small plates lined with decorative parchment paper for an added touch of sophistication.
- Accent with edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, around the platter to introduce a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the presentation.
- Incorporate height: Stack the sandwiches in a pyramid-like formation on the platter to create a visually striking and impressive display.
- Use high-quality serving ware: Present the sandwiches on elegant, high-quality serving ware to enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience.
Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It is essential for blending the salmon, wasabi, ginger, and crème fraîche to create a smooth mixture for the sandwich.
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for toasting the sesame seeds over moderate heat. It is an essential tool for achieving the perfect golden color and toasting the seeds evenly.
- Plate: A plate is used to transfer the toasted sesame seeds and let them cool before using them in the recipe.
- Spatula: A small spatula is used for spreading the scallion cream cheese and salmon mixture onto the bread slices, ensuring even distribution of the fillings.
- Sharp serrated knife: A sharp serrated knife is used for trimming the crusts and cutting the sandwich stacks into smaller sandwiches. The serrated edge helps to cut through the bread without squishing the fillings.
Storing and Freezing Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches: A Guide
To store the smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.
If you want to freeze the sandwiches, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches can be stored for up to 1 month. To thaw, transfer the sandwiches from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight.
When ready to serve, unwrap the sandwiches and let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will help restore the texture of the bread and prevent the sandwiches from being too cold.
If the bread seems slightly soggy after thawing, you can refresh the sandwiches by placing them in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the filling is warm.
How To Reheat Leftover Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method will help restore the crispiness of the bread while keeping the filling warm and creamy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the sandwiches. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwiches on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on the sandwiches to prevent them from burning.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the sandwiches and heat them for an additional 10-15 seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat the sandwiches, as the bread may become soggy, and the filling may start to melt and ooze out.
If you want to maintain the texture of the bread and the coolness of the cream cheese filling, you can try reheating the smoked salmon separately. Place the salmon slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. Then, reassemble the sandwiches with the warmed salmon and the cool cream cheese spread.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior, you can use a panini press or a grill pan to reheat the sandwiches. Preheat the press or pan to medium heat and place the sandwiches inside. Press down firmly and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method will give your leftover sandwiches a delicious, freshly-made taste.
Interesting Trivia About Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich is a popular dish in many countries and is often enjoyed as a light and flavorful meal.
Is Making Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches at Home Cost-Effective?
The smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of salmon and cream cheese may be slightly pricier, but the recipe yields 24 servings, making it suitable for multiple meals. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$40. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its versatility, flavors, and the potential to be a crowd-pleaser.
Is a Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich Healthy?
The smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich recipe is a delicious combination of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest choice. Here's why:
- The recipe uses white sandwich bread, which is typically made from refined flour and lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain bread.
- Cream cheese is high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease if consumed in excess.
- The recipe also includes crème fraîche, which is another high-fat dairy product.
- Smoked salmon, while a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, can be high in sodium.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Watercress, which is a nutrient-dense leafy green that provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
- Scallions, which are a good source of vitamin K and antioxidants.
- Ginger, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.
- Wasabi, which contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the white sandwich bread for whole grain bread to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese or a plant-based alternative to lower the saturated fat content
- Replace the crème fraîche with plain Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-rich option
- Be mindful of portion sizes, as even healthy ingredients can contribute to excess calorie intake if consumed in large quantities
- Add more vegetables to the sandwich, such as sliced cucumbers or radishes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
By making these simple modifications, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying sandwich while also supporting your overall health and well-being.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on the Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwich Recipe
The combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese in this sandwich recipe is a classic and timeless choice. The addition of wasabi, ginger, and scallions adds a delightful twist, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The use of sesame seeds provides a delightful crunch and nuttiness, elevating the overall texture of the sandwich. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for home cooks. Overall, this smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich recipe is a sophisticated and delectable option for a light lunch or elegant gathering.
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Why trust this Smoked Salmon With Cream Cheese Sandwiches Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich, incorporating wasabi and ginger for a delightful kick of flavor. The use of sesame seeds adds a satisfying crunch, while the combination of crème fraiche and cream cheese creates a creamy and luxurious texture. The inclusion of scallions and watercress leaves adds a refreshing and vibrant element to the sandwich. With carefully curated ingredients and precise instructions, this recipe promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.
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