Creamy salmon layers

Featured in Ocean fresh catch of the day.

A delicate starter that blends the velvety mascarpone with flavorful smoked salmon, placed between crispy pastry layers.

alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:06:28 GMT
A layered salmon and mascarpone dish topped with chives and pepper, served with crispy pastry layers. Pin it
A layered salmon and mascarpone dish topped with chives and pepper, served with crispy pastry layers. | tasteofsavor.com

At my eatery, this stacked dish has become what folks know me for during special celebrations. The idea popped into my head one evening when I wanted to whip up something fancy with smoked salmon. When you bite in, the crispy filo sheets meet the soft mascarpone - it's a combo that makes my guests' faces light up with joy.

My shopping list

I always pick my stuff with great care. My smoked salmon comes from a little producer I've known for ages. For mascarpone, only the real Italian stuff gets into my kitchen. I grab untreated lemons so I can use their skin to gently flavor the cream. The chives I use grow in the tiny herb garden behind my place.

Crafting the layers

The fun starts when I gently brush each filo sheet. I watch them turn golden in the oven super carefully. While that's happening, I beat my mascarpone till it's silky smooth, and the lemon gives it a nice tang while chives add that fresh kick. Putting it all together is when I get creative - each layer needs to be just right.

My twist ideas

Sometimes I slip thin cucumber slices between layers for extra crunch. Other times I swap chives for dill when I'm going for that Nordic taste. For guests watching their weight, I make it with whipped fresh cheese instead - it's lighter but still totally yummy.

Perfect pairings

On my wine list, I've got some white wines that go amazingly with this layered dish. I really love a cool Sancerre or Chablis with it. If you don't want booze, my homemade lemon-mint iced tea works wonders too. I always serve a little baby greens salad on the side with a lemony dressing that matches the flavors in the main dish.

A stacked dish with thin filo layers mixed with smoked salmon and cream, topped with chives and black pepper. Pin it
A stacked dish with thin filo layers mixed with smoked salmon and cream, topped with chives and black pepper. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep filo dough from drying out?

Cover unused sheets with a damp cloth. Work fast and generously brush oil or butter over each sheet.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the cream and bake the pastry beforehand, but assemble it right before serving to preserve the crispiness.

→ What kind of salmon should I use?

Go for thinly sliced, high-quality smoked salmon. Scottish or Norwegian options work great for rich flavor.

→ How do I get clean slices?

Use a very sharp knife, make quick cuts, and wipe the blade after each slice for a neat presentation.

→ Can I switch the herbs?

Swap chives for dill or parsley. Dill complements smoked salmon especially well.

Creamy salmon layers

Thin crispy filo paired with alternating layers of smoked salmon and tangy mascarpone cream. A simple yet elegant dish.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
7 Minutes
Total Time
37 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Modern French

Yield: 4 Servings (4 desserts)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 200 g smoked salmon.
02 200 g mascarpone cheese.
03 Juice from 1 lemon.
04 2 tablespoons of chopped chives.
05 A pinch of salt.
06 Black pepper to taste.
07 6 sheets of phyllo dough.
08 Olive oil or melted butter for brushing.

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 180°C to preheat. Cut the dough into rectangles, brush lightly with oil, and bake for 5-7 minutes until golden.

Step 02

Stir together the mascarpone, lemon juice, chives, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Step 03

Layer the phyllo sheets, mascarpone cream, and smoked salmon, creating 3-4 levels.

Step 04

End with a dollop of cream on top, chill in the fridge for an hour, and sprinkle with chives before serving.

Notes

  1. Make sure the phyllo is crisp.
  2. Only put it together just before eating.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven.
  • Baking tray.
  • Parchment paper.
  • Pastry brush.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Fish (salmon).
  • Dairy (mascarpone).
  • Gluten (phyllo dough).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
  • Protein: 18 g