Ingredients

Dough and Filling Ingredients

500 grams puff pastry (approximately 1.1 pounds)
200 grams cream cheese (approximately 7 ounces)
50 grams spinach (approximately 1.8 ounces)
400-500 grams smoked salmon (approximately 0.9-1.1 pounds)
250 grams mushrooms (approximately 8.8 ounces)
1 egg for egg wash
Salt to taste
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Spinach

Start by heating a pan with a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and sauté for a couple of minutes until wilted but still vibrant. If you prefer a different green, you can replace the spinach with dill. Note: If using dill, skip the sautéing step.

Step 2

Mix the Filling

Once the spinach is ready, add it to the cream cheese in a bowl. Stir well to combine until the mixture is smooth. Next, take the mushrooms, slice them, and sauté until fully cooked, seasoning them with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 3

Prepare the Dough

On a clean surface, slightly roll out the puff pastry to make it easier to work with. Cut each sheet of dough into two equal parts. This will create the bases for your mini pies.

Step 4

Assemble the Mini Pies

On one half of each dough piece, spoon a bit of cream cheese mixture, topped with the cooled sautéed mushrooms and a few pieces of the smoked salmon. Be careful not to overfill.

Next, fold the other side of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together firmly to seal the pies. Place them seam side down on a baking tray.

Step 5

Bake the Mini Pies

Preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F). Before placing the pies into the oven, brush them with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden color. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the mini pies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious mini pies! They are perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

Servings

When it comes to serving these delightful mini pastries, presentation is key! Arrange them on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a vibrant touch. Pair them with a light salad made of mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For a complete picnic experience, add some sparkling lemonade or herbal tea. 🧂 You can also serve them with a flavorful dipping sauce like a tangy aioli or a simple squeeze of lemon juice to enhance those rich flavors. Your guests are going to love these bite-sized delights!

Equipment

A rolling pin is essential for rolling out your puff pastry to the desired thickness. If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can work in a pinch!

Variations

☀️ Gluten-Free Variation: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the puff pastry with gluten-free dough available at specialty stores. Just be sure to check the labels! 🍃
🌱 Vegan Variation: To make this recipe vegan, replace the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based egg wash made from almond milk or water mixed with a bit of nutritional yeast. These substitutions maintain the delicious taste while catering to dietary needs.

Faq

  • What if my puff pastry is too hard to roll out?

    Allow it to sit at room temperature for around 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and roll out.

  • Can I use different fillings?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like cooked chicken, different cheeses, or assorted vegetables!

  • How do I ensure my pastries are flaky?

    Make sure not to overwork the dough and keep it cold until baking; this helps achieve that delightful flakiness!

  • What’s the best way to store leftovers?

    Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

  • Can I freeze the mini pastries?

    Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  • How can I tell when my pastries are done baking?

    Look for a golden-brown color on the top, and the pastry should feel crisp to the touch. If the edges are browning fast, you can cover them with foil.

Nutrition facts

Mini Pies with Cream Cheese and Salmon
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Estimated calorie range per serving
Calories (Min - Max):320 - 450
Total Fat:20g
Saturated Fat:8g
Protein:15g
Total Carbohydrate:35g
Total Sugars:2g