Save The Étoiles Filantes Assiette de Fin dAnnée is a festive and elegant appetizer perfect for celebrating the year's end. Featuring golden puff pastry stars filled with a creamy herbed cream cheese and layered with delicate smoked salmon, this dish combines classic French flavors with an eye-catching presentation. Its light, fresh ingredients and charming star shapes make it a wonderful addition to any holiday table.
Save This delicate appetizer blends textures and flavors: the crisp, airy pastry complements the smooth cream cheese, accented by fresh herbs and bright lemon zest. The smoked salmon adds a luxurious touch, while cucumber and capers introduce refreshing contrasts. Whether for a family gathering or a sophisticated soirée, these star-shaped bites celebrate both taste and style.
Ingredients
- For the Puff Pastry Stars
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- For the Herbed Cream Cheese
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Assembly
- 150 g smoked salmon, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- 2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars and place them on the prepared tray.
- 3. Brush each star with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- 4. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and puffed. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- 5. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, dill, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 6. Once stars are cool, carefully slice them in half horizontally.
- 7. Spread a generous layer of herbed cream cheese on the bottom half of each star.
- 8. Top with smoked salmon slices, cucumber, and a few capers. Place the top half of the star on each.
- 9. Arrange on a festive platter. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For beautifully golden and crisp pastry stars, ensure your puff pastry is well chilled before baking. Use a sharp star-shaped cutter for clean edges. When slicing stars in half, a gentle sawing motion with a sharp knife will prevent cracking. Mixing herbs finely into the cream cheese helps distribute flavor evenly throughout the filling.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute smoked salmon with smoked trout or marinated tofu to create a vegetarian-friendly version. For added zest, stir a touch of horseradish into the cream cheese. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like tarragon or parsley to customize the flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these star-shaped bites immediately for the best texture and freshness. Arrange them on a festive platter garnished with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges to brighten the presentation. Pair with a crisp white wine or a sparkling aperitif to complement the delicate flavors.
Save With its charming star shapes and harmonious flavor combinations, the Étoiles Filantes Assiette de Fin dAnnée offers a stunning start to any festive meal. Easy to prepare yet elegant to serve, this appetizer invites you to celebrate the season with delicious French-inspired flair.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pastry is best for making the stars?
Using a high-quality puff pastry sheet ensures crisp and flaky stars after baking. Thawed properly, it rolls out smoothly and puffs evenly in the oven.
- → Can I prepare the puff pastry stars in advance?
Yes, you can bake the stars ahead and cool them completely. Assemble with herbed cheese and salmon just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What herbs are used in the cream cheese filling?
Fresh dill and chives are finely chopped and mixed into the cream cheese, complemented by lemon zest for brightness.
- → Are there suitable alternatives for smoked salmon?
Smoked trout or marinated tofu provide tasty substitutions, accommodating different dietary preferences while preserving flavor balance.
- → How should I store leftovers for best quality?
Store assembled stars in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours to keep textures and flavors at their best.