- Smoked salmon slices (wild-caught, organic, or sustainably sourced)
- Creamy dill sauce (made from fresh dill, sour cream, and a touch of lemon juice)
- Panko breadcrumbs (for added texture and crunch)
- Whole grain mustard (a flavorful addition for extra taste)
- Fresh herbs like chives or parsley (optional garnish for presentation)
- Microgreens or edible flowers (decorative elements to enhance the appearance)
*Use local and seasonal asparagus spears for best flavor.
*Sustainably sourced smoked salmon ensures an eco-friendly meal choice.
*Fresh dill in the creamy sauce complements the natural taste of both asparagus and smoked salmon perfectly.
Steps
### Asparagus and Smoked Salmon Bundles Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- 4 large asparagus spears (trimmed)
- 2 oz smoked salmon (sliced or crumbled)
- Fresh dill (chopped, about 1 tablespoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Optional: A pinch of lemon zest
#### Equipment:
- Parchment paper
- Kitchen scissors
#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
1. **Trim the Asparagus**: Wash the asparagus spears and use kitchen scissors to trim them, cutting off about 1/2 inch from each end.
2. **Cook the Asparagus**:
- Place a steamer basket in a pot filled with an inch of water. Bring it to a boil.
- Steam the asparagus for 3-4 minutes or until just tender but still crisp.
##### Step 2: Prepare the Smoked Salmon
1. **Slice or Crumble**: If your smoked salmon is not already sliced, use kitchen scissors to cut it into small pieces.
2. **Season the Salmon**:
- In a small bowl, mix together the chopped dill, salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest.
##### Step 3: Assemble the Bundles
1. **Prepare Parchment Paper**: Lay out large sheets of parchment paper on your workspace.
2. **Add Ingredients**:
- Place one asparagus spear at a corner of each parchment paper.
- Add a small portion of the salmon mixture, about 1 tablespoon, on top of the asparagus.
##### Step 4: Roll and Seal
1. **Roll the Parchment**: Starting from the side with the asparagus, roll up the parchment tightly around the asparagus and salmon filling.
2. **Seal the Ends**: Fold over any open edges to seal the bundles securely. You can use a little water to stick the ends together if needed.
##### Step 5: Bake
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Bake**:
- Place the parchment-wrapped bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over each bundle and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and slightly crispy.
##### Step 6: Serve
1. **Remove from Oven**: Carefully remove the bundles from the oven using tongs to avoid burns.
2. **Serve Hot**: Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.
#### Tips for Best Results:
- Ensure your asparagus is steamed but not overcooked to maintain its crunch.
- Adjust the seasoning according to personal taste; you can add more salt or pepper if needed.
- For an extra burst of flavor, use high-quality smoked salmon and freshly chopped dill.
By following these detailed steps, you'll create delicious and elegant asparagus and smoked salmon bundles that are perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy your meal!