Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful and elegant appetizer, look no further than these Smoked Salmon Tartines with Green Goddess Goat Cheese. They are the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors, all atop crispy baguette slices. Ideal for gatherings, brunches, or even a light dinner, these tartines are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
1 baguette
Olive oil, for drizzling
Garlic powder, for sprinkling
Kosher salt, to taste
4 ounces smoked salmon
Pickled onions, for topping
Fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, dill), for garnish
For the Green Goddess Goat Cheese:
11 ounces goat cheese, softened
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon snipped chives
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10-12 minutes
Total Time
25-27 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Directions
1. **Prepare the Baguette:**
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of kosher salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the slices are golden and toasted.
2. **Prepare the Green Goddess Goat Cheese:**
In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped parsley, basil, dill, and chives. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the Tartines:**
Spread a generous layer of the Green Goddess Goat Cheese onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a piece of smoked salmon, followed by pickled onions. Garnish with fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill.
4. **Serve:**
Arrange the tartines on a serving platter and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baguette:
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices.
– Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
– Drizzle each slice with olive oil.
– Sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of kosher salt.
– Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the slices are golden and toasted.
Prepare the Green Goddess Goat Cheese:
– In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped parsley, basil, dill, and chives.
– Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
– Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
– Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Tartines:
– Spread a generous layer of the Green Goddess Goat Cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
– Top each slice with a piece of smoked salmon.
– Add pickled onions on top of the smoked salmon.
– Garnish with fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill.
Serve:
– Arrange the tartines on a serving platter.
– Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Enjoying Variations:
– Feel free to customize your tartines by adding other toppings like capers or avocado slices.
Storing Leftovers:
– If you have leftover goat cheese, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Goat Cheese Consistency:
– Ensure the goat cheese is softened for easier mixing and spreading. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Baguette
Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving a perfectly toasted baguette. Slicing the baguette into uniform pieces ensures even toasting. Drizzling with olive oil helps to create a golden, crispy texture, while garlic powder adds flavor.
Baking the Baguette Slices
Baking at 400°F (200°C) allows for the bread to crisp up quickly. Keeping an eye on the baguette during the last few minutes is important to prevent burning.
Making Green Goddess Goat Cheese
Combining fresh herbs with goat cheese adds a vibrant flavor. Softening the cheese beforehand makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth spread. Adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall taste.
Assembling the Tartines
Layering the goat cheese first allows for better adherence of toppings like smoked salmon and pickled onions. Presentation is key, so choosing fresh herbs for garnish brightens the dish visually.
Serving the Tartines
Arranging the tartines on a platter not only makes for an aesthetically pleasing display but also allows for easy access when serving. Serving immediately ensures the baguette remains crispy.
FAQ
Can I use other types of bread instead of baguette?
Yes, you can substitute with ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover assembled tartines in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day but expect the bread to lose its crispness.
Can I make the goat cheese mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goat cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before spreading.
What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with toppings like capers, slices of cucumber, or radish for additional texture and flavor.
Is there a vegan alternative for goat cheese?
Yes, you can use a vegan cream cheese or nut-based cheese as a substitute for goat cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
The combination of toasted baguette, creamy Green Goddess Goat Cheese, rich smoked salmon, and tangy pickled onions creates a delightful flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal, illustrating how simple ingredients can come together to create an elegant dish. With fresh herbs to garnish, each bite is a burst of flavor that invites you to savor each moment.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Avocado Toast Variation
Replace the smoked salmon with sliced avocado and sprinkle with red pepper flakes and lime juice for a creamy, zesty option.
Cucumber and Hummus Tartines
Top the goat cheese with fresh cucumber slices and a dollop of your favorite hummus for a light, crunchy snack.
Caprese Style Tartines
Layer fresh mozzarella slices, tomatoes, and basil on the goat cheese, drizzling with balsamic glaze for a classic flavor.
Spicy Tuna Tartines
Substitute smoked salmon with spicy tuna salad, adding sesame seeds and sliced radishes for an Asian twist.
Roasted Vegetable Tartines
Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant over the goat cheese for a hearty vegetarian option.
Fig and Prosciutto Tartines
Add fresh figs and thin slices of prosciutto on top of the goat cheese for a sweet and salty combination that showcases seasonal flavors.
