Elegant Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Torta
This sumptuous Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Torta combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese and buttery salmon, inspired by the culinary traditions of Canada's coastal provinces. Perfect for gatherings or outdoor picnics, this dish is a striking centerpiece that is both pleasing to the eye and palate. With layers of luxurious cream cheese infused with fresh dill, interspersed with delicately smoked salmon, it invites you to enjoy each bite spread onto crispy crackers or sliced baguettes. Prepare this torta a day ahead for optimal flavor and presentation. Its balance of taste and texture will impress your guests at any festive occasion, making it a truly elegant addition to your appetizer repertoire.
8
Servings
255
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
2 (8-ounce packages, at room temperature)
butter
1/2 (cup, at room temperature)
salt
to taste
fresh dill sprigs
2-3 (for layering)
fresh dill
1/4 (cup, chopped)
smoked salmon
1/2 (lb, sliced)
assorted bread and crackers
to serve
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Season with salt to taste.
2
Line an 8x4-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, ensuring there is enough overhang to cover the top. Arrange the fresh dill sprigs in a single layer on the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
3
Spread one-third of the cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined pan, creating a solid layer.
4
Sprinkle half of the chopped dill over the cream cheese layer, then add half of the smoked salmon evenly on top.
5
Repeat the layering process, adding another third of the cheese mixture, followed by the remaining chopped dill and smoked salmon.
6
Finish with the final third of the cream cheese mixture, smoothing it out on top.
7
Gently press down on the layers to compact them slightly, ensuring they hold together.
8
Cover the top with the overhanging plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the torta to set.
9
To serve, carefully lift the torta out of the pan using the plastic wrap, invert it onto a serving plate, and gently remove the wrap.
10
Slice and serve alongside an assortment of bread and crackers for a delightful appetizer experience.
Nutrition Information
21g
Fat
3g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Elegant Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Torta?
It is a layered savory appetizer consisting of cream cheese, butter, fresh dill, and sliced smoked salmon, typically chilled and served with crackers or bread.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 255 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of this torta?
There are 21 grams of fat per serving.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, each serving contains only 3 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does the Smoked Salmon Torta contain?
Each serving provides about 12 grams of protein.
What type of salmon should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 lb of sliced smoked salmon.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the torta overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the structure to set.
What size loaf pan is needed?
You should use an 8x4-inch loaf pan for this recipe.
Do I need to use plastic wrap?
Yes, lining the pan with plastic wrap is essential for easily lifting the torta out and inverting it onto a serving plate.
What is the purpose of the butter in the cream cheese mixture?
The butter is beaten with the cream cheese to create a smooth, fluffy, and rich consistency that helps the torta hold its shape.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Fresh dill is highly recommended for both the internal layers and the decorative bottom layer to provide the best flavor and presentation.
How should the cream cheese be prepared before mixing?
The cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly with the butter.
What should I serve with the torta?
It is best served alongside an assortment of bread and crackers.
Is there a specific way to layer the ingredients?
Yes, you layer cream cheese, then dill and salmon, then repeat, finishing with a final layer of cream cheese.
How do I remove the torta from the pan?
Carefully lift it out using the overhanging plastic wrap, then invert it onto a plate and remove the wrap.
Does this recipe originate from a specific region?
The recipe is inspired by the culinary traditions of Canada's coastal provinces.
Can I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifies adding salt to taste, so you can use either, adjusting the additional salt accordingly.
How much cream cheese is required?
You will need two 8-ounce packages of cream cheese.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, smoked salmon, cream cheese, elegant, party food, Canadian cuisine, picnic, and dill.
Can this torta be frozen?
It is generally not recommended to freeze cream cheese-based tortas as the texture can become grainy upon thawing.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
The recipe data indicates there is no significant fiber content in this dish.
How do I ensure the layers hold together?
Gently press down on the layers as you assemble them to compact the mixture.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 7 main ingredients required for this recipe.
Is this dish suitable for a picnic?
Yes, its firm structure when chilled and its elegant appearance make it great for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
Should I season the cream cheese?
Yes, season the cream cheese and butter mixture with salt to your personal taste preference.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
How much dill is used inside the layers?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill sprinkled throughout the layers.
What is the role of the dill sprigs?
The fresh dill sprigs are arranged on the bottom of the pan to add flavor and a decorative look when the torta is inverted.
Is this considered a Canadian dish?
Yes, it is categorized under Canadian cuisine.