Salmon strudel has this magical way of making any weeknight feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I tried a proper salmon pastry strudel; the flaky, golden crust gave way to a warm, creamy filling that was just out of this world. It wasn’t just dinner, it was an experience! The aroma of dill and lemon wafting from the oven always brings my family to the kitchen, eager for a slice. This dish answers the question of ‘what is salmon strudel’ with a resounding ‘deliciousness!’ It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet impressive enough for guests. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Strudel
You’re going to adore this salmon strudel for so many reasons! It’s a flavor explosion with tender salmon and rich cream cheese, all wrapped in perfectly flaky pastry. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an easy salmon strudel for busy weeknights.
- Incredible taste: A delightful blend of savory salmon, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs.
- Quick prep time: Get this easy salmon strudel on the table in under an hour.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and omega-3s from the salmon.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients for a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the flaky pastry and mild flavor.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a sophisticated appetizer for guests.
- Minimal cleanup: Most of the work is done in one bowl and a single baking sheet.
Salmon Strudel Ingredients
Gathering these items will make your salmon cream cheese strudel assembly a breeze. The combination of flaky pastry, tender salmon, and creamy cheese is what makes this dish so special. For this salmon and spinach strudel, you’ll need:
- 500g salmon fillet, skinless and boneless – the star of our show!
- 250g puff pastry or phyllo dough – choose your favorite for that essential flaky crust.
- 150g cream cheese, softened – this provides a wonderfully rich and creamy base for our filling.
- 100g fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry – adds a lovely color and a touch of earthiness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – for a subtle savory note.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – a little bit of garlic goes a long way!
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – dill and salmon are a classic pairing that can’t be beat.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – to brighten up all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for cooking the salmon.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.
- 1 egg, beaten – this is for our egg wash, giving the strudel a beautiful golden sheen.
How to Make Salmon Strudel
Whipping up this delicious salmon strudel is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a perfectly flaky and flavorful dish.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This is crucial for getting that golden, puffed pastry we all love.
- Step 2: While the oven heats, gently cook the salmon fillet in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for about 5-7 minutes. You want it just cooked through, not dry. Once slightly cooled, flake it into bite-sized pieces. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
- Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon with the softened cream cheese, wilted and squeezed dry spinach, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix everything gently until well combined to create your flavorful salmon strudel filling.
- Step 4: Prepare your pastry. If using puff pastry, roll it out slightly on a lightly floured surface. For phyllo dough, layer several sheets (usually 6-8), brushing each layer with melted butter or oil to create a sturdy, crispy base for this salmon puff pastry strudel.
- Step 5: Spread the prepared salmon strudel filling evenly over your pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This makes rolling much easier.
- Step 6: Carefully and snugly roll up the pastry to enclose the filling, ensuring the edges are sealed well to prevent any of that delicious filling from escaping during baking.
- Step 7: Place your beautifully formed salmon strudel seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Step 8: Brush the entire top surface of the strudel with the beaten egg. This creates a gorgeous golden-brown finish when baked.
- Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it – ovens can vary! The smell as this salmon strudel bakes is incredible.
- Step 10: Let the salmon strudel cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making for cleaner slices. Enjoy learning how to make salmon strudel!
Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Strudel
Want to elevate your salmon strudel game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee a fantastic result every time. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flaky crust and luscious filling.
- For an extra flaky crust, use good quality puff pastry or layer phyllo with melted butter generously.
- Don’t overcook the salmon before flaking; it will cook more in the oven.
- Ensure your spinach is thoroughly squeezed dry to prevent a soggy filling.
- Let the strudel rest for at least 10 minutes after baking before slicing.
What’s the secret to perfect salmon strudel?
The secret lies in a balanced filling and proper pastry handling. Using softened cream cheese creates a creamy texture, and ensuring the spinach is dry prevents sogginess. Following these salmon strudel baking tips ensures a delightful result. For more on pastry techniques, you can explore resources on pastry making.
Can I make salmon strudel ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the strudel up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with salmon strudel?
A common pitfall is a soggy bottom; this is avoided by ensuring your spinach is very dry and by not overfilling. Also, don’t skip the egg wash – it gives that beautiful golden color.
Best Ways to Serve Salmon Strudel
This versatile salmon strudel is fantastic as a main course or a delightful appetizer. For a satisfying main dish, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad perfectly cuts through the richness of the strudel. Another excellent option for salmon strudel side dishes is roasted asparagus or tender sautéed green beans. If you’re serving it as an appetizer, cut it into smaller, bite-sized portions. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of lemon-dill sauce also makes for a wonderful accompaniment. For other appetizer ideas, check out these appetizer recipes.
Salmon Strudel Nutritional Information
This salmon strudel is a nutritious choice, offering a good balance of macronutrients. Each serving provides essential protein and healthy fats. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (1/6 of the strudel):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on salmon’s nutritional benefits, you can refer to resources on salmon nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat Salmon Strudel
Properly storing and reheating your delicious salmon strudel ensures you can enjoy every last bite, even days later. Once your masterpiece has cooled completely, which usually takes about an hour, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled strudel. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and it should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. These salmon strudel cooking methods for storage are simple but effective.
To reheat, if frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. For refrigerated strudel, you can reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. Microwaving is an option, but it can make the pastry a bit soft, so the oven methods are preferred for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Strudel
What is salmon strudel?
Salmon strudel is a savory pastry dish where a flavorful filling, typically made with flaked salmon, cream cheese, and herbs like dill, is enclosed in layers of flaky pastry, such as puff pastry or phyllo dough. It’s baked until golden brown and is delicious served warm as a main course or appetizer.
Is this the best salmon strudel recipe for beginners?
Absolutely! This salmon strudel recipe is designed to be approachable for cooks of all levels. We use straightforward steps and common ingredients, making it an easy salmon strudel to master. You’ll be amazed at how impressive it looks and tastes, even with minimal fuss. If you’re looking for other easy recipes, consider these dinner recipes.
Can I use different types of salmon in my strudel?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of salmon! While this recipe calls for fresh salmon fillet, you could also try a smoked salmon strudel for a richer, more intense flavor. Just adjust the seasoning as smoked salmon is already salty. Another variation is to use canned salmon, though fresh or smoked will yield the best texture and taste.
What are some salmon strudel filling ideas besides spinach?
There are so many delicious salmon strudel filling ideas! You could add finely chopped leeks, sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, or even some capers for a briny kick. Roasted red peppers or a mix of sautéed mushrooms would also be wonderful additions to complement the salmon and cream cheese. For more ideas, explore these appetizer ideas.
Variations of Salmon Strudel You Can Try
This base recipe is fantastic, but there are so many fun ways to switch things up! Exploring salmon strudel variations can lead to new favorite dishes. If you’re looking for different flavor profiles, consider trying a smoked salmon strudel. The smokiness adds a wonderful depth that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese and dill. For those who love a bit of spice or texture, think about incorporating other salmon strudel filling ideas like finely diced red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch.
- Smoked Salmon Strudel: Swap fresh salmon for an equal amount of good quality smoked salmon. You might want to reduce the added salt slightly as smoked salmon is already briny.
- Spicy Salmon Strudel: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the filling for a gentle kick.
- Mediterranean Salmon Strudel: Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives, capers, and a touch of oregano into the filling for a zesty twist.
- Phyllo Dough Variation: Instead of puff pastry, use multiple layers of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter for an incredibly crisp, delicate crust.
Amazing Salmon Strudel: Quick & Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Salmon Strudel featuring tender salmon and flaky phyllo pastry, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 500g salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
- 250g puff pastry or phyllo dough
- 150g cream cheese
- 100g fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook the salmon fillet in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until just cooked through. Let it cool slightly, then flake it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cream cheese, wilted spinach, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the salmon strudel filling.
- If using puff pastry, roll it out slightly on a floured surface. If using phyllo dough, layer several sheets, brushing each with melted butter.
- Spread the salmon strudel filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a border around the edges.
- Carefully roll up the pastry to enclose the filling, sealing the edges.
- Place the salmon strudel seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of the strudel with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the salmon strudel cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling.
- Smoked salmon can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a side salad or a dollop of sour cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of strudel
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg