Elegant Leek and Asparagus Smoked Salmon Terrine
This sophisticated Leek and Asparagus Smoked Salmon Terrine is a stunning centerpiece guaranteed to impress your guests. The dish combines the gentle flavors of leeks and asparagus with the rich taste of smoked salmon, all enveloped in creamy Philadelphia cheese. It presents beautifully, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or luxurious dinners, especially when paired with perfectly seared tuna steaks. Enjoy a dish that embodies elegance, visual appeal, and delightful taste.
12
Servings
193
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus spears
10 thin (Trimmed to fit the length of the pan)
Leeks
2 large and long (White section finely chopped, green section sliced into ribbons)
Butter
1 tablespoon (Melted)
Philadelphia Cream Cheese
500 g (2 packages) (Softened)
Smoked salmon
100 g (Finely chopped)
Lemon rind
1/2 (Grated)
Lemon juice
Juice of ½ lemon (Freshly squeezed)
Horseradish
1 tablespoon (Prepared)
Salt and pepper
To taste (Seasoning)
Instructions
1
1. Prepare the asparagus by blanching in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until the spears are bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly.
2
2. Finely chop the white section of the leeks to yield approximately one cup.
3
3. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and sauté for about 2 minutes or until they become soft. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
4
4. Slice the green section of the leeks lengthwise into long, ribbon-like leaves. Blanch these ribbons in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until softened. Transfer to cold water and drain well.
5
5. In a large bowl, mix the cooled leeks, softened cream cheese, smoked salmon, grated lemon rind, lemon juice, horseradish, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and smooth.
6
6. Line an 11cm x 21cm loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving some overhang.
7
7. Arrange the leek ribbons across the bottom and sides of the pan, ensuring they overlap slightly to prevent any gaps.
8
8. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture into the pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Place the blanched asparagus spears over the mixture.
9
9. Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture, smoothing out the surface.
10
10. Fold the overhanging leek ribbons over the top of the mixture to enclose the terrine completely. Trim any excess leeks if necessary.
11
11. Cover the mold with the overhanging plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours until firm.
12
12. Carefully invert the terrine onto a serving plate, removing the plastic wrap.
13
13. Slice the terrine into portions and serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
16.3 g
Fat
8.4 g
Carbs
7 g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Elegant Leek and Asparagus Smoked Salmon Terrine?
It is a sophisticated centerpiece dish that combines leeks, asparagus, and smoked salmon with a creamy Philadelphia cheese base, often served as an elegant appetizer for special occasions.
How many servings does this terrine recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to provide 12 servings.
How should I prepare the asparagus for the terrine?
Blanch the asparagus spears in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green, then immediately transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process.
What part of the leek is used for the internal mixture?
The white section of the leeks should be finely chopped and sautéed to be used in the cream cheese mixture.
How do I use the green section of the leeks?
The green section is sliced lengthwise into ribbons and blanched for 1 to 2 minutes to serve as the outer wrapping of the terrine.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving of the terrine contains approximately 193 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of the terrine?
One serving contains 16.3 grams of fat.
What is the protein content of this dish?
There are 7 grams of protein per serving.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains about 8.4 grams of carbohydrates.
What kind of cream cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 500 grams of softened Philadelphia Cream Cheese.
How much smoked salmon is required?
You will need 100 grams of finely chopped smoked salmon.
What size loaf pan should I use for the terrine?
An 11cm x 21cm loaf pan is the ideal size for this recipe.
How do I prevent the terrine from sticking to the pan?
Line the loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving some overhang to make removal easier later.
How do I ensure the terrine looks neat on the outside?
Arrange the blanched leek ribbons across the bottom and sides of the pan, ensuring they overlap slightly to prevent any gaps.
What ingredients provide the flavoring for the cheese mixture?
The mixture is flavored with grated lemon rind, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper.
What is the purpose of the horseradish in this recipe?
The horseradish adds a subtle spicy kick that complements the richness of the salmon and cream cheese.
How do I layer the asparagus within the terrine?
Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture into the pan, place the asparagus spears on top, and then cover them with the remaining mixture.
How long does the terrine need to be refrigerated?
The terrine should be refrigerated for several hours until it is firm enough to slice.
How do I finish the top of the terrine before chilling?
Fold the overhanging leek ribbons over the top of the cheese mixture to enclose it completely, then cover with the plastic wrap.
What is the best way to unmold the terrine?
Carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate and gently remove the plastic wrap.
Should the terrine be served cold or at room temperature?
The terrine should be served chilled.
Is there any butter used in this recipe?
Yes, one tablespoon of butter is used to sauté the chopped white sections of the leeks.
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Freshly squeezed juice from half a lemon is recommended for the best flavor profile.
What are the key decorative elements of this dish?
The outer layer of green leek ribbons and the internal layer of whole green asparagus spears create the visual appeal.
Is this recipe suitable for a pescatarian diet?
Yes, this recipe contains seafood and vegetables, making it suitable for pescatarians.
What is a suggested pairing for this terrine?
It pairs beautifully with perfectly seared tuna steaks for a luxurious meal.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 primary ingredients, including seasonings.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The nutritional data provided lists the fiber content as null, though the leeks and asparagus may contribute a small amount.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include elegant, smoked salmon, terrine, asparagus, leek, cream cheese, appetizer, sophisticated, special occasion, seafood, and vegetable dish.
Is this a fast recipe to prepare?
While the active prep involves several steps like blanching and sautéing, it also requires several hours of chilling time, so it should be planned in advance.