Smoked Salmon Tart Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about a Smoked Salmon Tart that combines elegant flavors with simple preparation. This dish features flaky, golden puff pastry layered with creamy whipped cream cheese, smoky slices of salmon, and fresh herbs that burst with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch, a fancy gathering, or just craving a delicious treat, this tart offers a brilliant balance of textures and flavors that come together effortlessly, making it a must-have recipe in your repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but crucial to capture the essence of this tart. Each component plays a key role, from the buttery puff pastry providing a crisp base to the fragrant dill and zesty seasoning adding freshness and punch.

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): The flaky, buttery foundation that gives the tart its irresistible crunch and texture.
• 1 large egg: Used to create an egg wash that helps the pastry achieve that beautiful golden hue during baking.
• 1 tablespoon water: Mixed with the egg to evenly brush on the pastry for a perfect finish.
• 2 tablespoons everything but the bagel seasoning: This seasoning adds an extra layer of savory crunch and flavor to the edges.
• 4-5 oz whipped cream cheese (room temperature): A luscious, creamy layer that balances the smoky salmon.
• 4-5 oz smoked salmon: The star ingredient, delivering rich, smoky flavor and delicate texture.
• ½ cup baby tomatoes (halved): Adds a pop of color and juicy freshness to brighten the tart.
• ¼ cup fresh dill (torn and divided): Brings a fragrant, herbaceous element that perfectly complements the salmon.
• 2 tablespoons capers (drained for garnish): Offers a briny bite that cuts through the richness.
• ¼ small red onion (thinly sliced for garnish): Adds subtle crunch and mild sharpness once rinsed and prepped.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out your thawed puff pastry sheet. To ensure a neat edge, gently press any folds closed with dampened fingers to avoid gaps while baking.

Step 2: Score and Season the Pastry

Using a fork, poke holes all over the pastry surface except for a one-inch border around the edges. This prevents excessive puffing in the center. Lightly score the edges with a butter knife to encourage even rising there. Then, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash and brush the entire pastry evenly. Sprinkle the edges generously with the everything but the bagel seasoning for a savory, nutty crunch.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the tart in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is a glorious golden brown. Keep an eye on it as oven temperatures can vary; you want a perfect crisp without burning.

Step 4: Cool and Deflate

Remove the tart from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for about 5 minutes. If the center has puffed up, gently deflate with a fork to create an even surface, preparing it for layering.

Step 5: Build the Smoked Salmon Tart

In a bowl, combine most of the torn dill with the whipped cream cheese and spread this luscious mixture evenly across the pastry. Top this with generous slices of smoked salmon, halved baby tomatoes, and drained capers. Add the thinly sliced red onion for a subtle crunch—if you want a milder onion flavor, rinse the slices in warm water, squeeze gently, and pat dry. Finally, scatter the remaining dill on top for a fresh herbal finish. Slice into six pieces for sharing or savoring all to yourself!

How to Serve Smoked Salmon Tart

Garnishes

Fresh dill sprigs and a sprinkle of capers on top elevate the presentation and add bursts of flavor. You might also consider a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish on the plate.

Side Dishes

A crisp arugula salad tossed with olive oil, lemon, and a pinch of salt pairs beautifully with this tart. The peppery greens contrast nicely with the creaminess and smokiness, creating a balanced, refreshing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the tart on a wooden board with small bowls of extra capers, sliced red onion, and fresh herbs for a lovely communal experience. For a party, cut into bite-sized squares and top each with a tiny dollop of cream cheese and a caper to make elegant, finger-friendly appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover smoked salmon tart covered tightly in the refrigerator. For best flavor and texture, consume within 1-2 days as the puff pastry will gradually lose its crispness.

Freezing

While the assembled tart is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked puff pastry shell before adding toppings. Wrap it well and store for up to one month. Thaw overnight and add ingredients just before serving to maintain freshness.

Reheating

Reheat leftover tart in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes to recover some of the original crisp. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped?

Absolutely! Just soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature and stir it well to make it spreadable. Whipped cream cheese just offers a lighter texture.

What is “everything but the bagel” seasoning?

It is a savory spice blend usually containing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt, popularized by bagels but wonderful on many dishes for extra flavor.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the puff pastry with a gluten-free variety, you can enjoy this tart while avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check ingredient labels carefully.

How do I prevent the red onion from overpowering the tart?

Rinse thinly sliced red onion in warm water, then gently squeeze out excess moisture. This method mellows the sharpness and keeps the flavor balanced.

Is it okay to prepare the tart the night before?

It is best to bake the puff pastry and assemble the toppings fresh before serving. However, you can prep the toppings ahead and store them separately in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Salmon Tart is a delightful combination of ease, elegance, and flavor that will quickly become a favorite for any occasion. The balance of smoky salmon, creamy cheese, and crisp pastry is truly comforting yet sophisticated. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a shining star in your kitchen and at your table!