Introduction:
This Christmas Mousse with Avocado and Smoked Salmon is a festive, healthy, and elegant appetizer that combines rich, creamy flavors with a touch of sophistication. The creamy texture of avocado balances the smoky depth of salmon, creating a delicious contrast.
It’s the perfect dish to serve at a holiday gathering, offering a light yet indulgent bite.
This mousse is quick to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and will undoubtedly impress your guests.
Ingredients:
2 ripe avocados
200g smoked salmon, thinly sliced
150g cream cheese, softened
200ml heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh dill or chives, for garnish
A few extra slices of smoked salmon, for garnish
Optional: a splash of vodka or white wine for extra depth of flavor
Instructions:
Prepare the Avocados:
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Place the avocado flesh in a food processor or blender.
Blend the Base:
Add the cream cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the blender.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the avocado and cream cheese mixture.
Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream—this will keep the mousse light and airy.
Add Smoked Salmon:
Finely chop 150g of smoked salmon and fold it into the mousse mixture, leaving some pieces for garnish.
If you want a smoother texture, you can also blend it into the mousse.
Chill:
Spoon the mousse into small serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld and the mousse to set.
Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the mousse with additional slices of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives. Serve chilled as an appetizer.
Description:
This mousse brings together the creaminess of avocado and the savory, smoky flavors of salmon, creating a delightful contrast in each bite. It’s an elegant, bite-sized appetizer, perfect for holiday tables. The richness of the avocado, paired with the delicate smoked salmon, offers a luxurious treat that’s surprisingly light, making it a great choice for festive celebrations. Whether served in individual cups or as a spread, this mousse offers both a visual and culinary appeal, making it an ideal starter for a Christmas dinner.
Tips:
Choosing Avocados:
Ensure the avocados are ripe but firm to get the perfect creamy texture for the mousse.
Smoked Salmon Quality:
The better the quality of smoked salmon, the more flavorful the mousse will be. Opt for a fresh, high-quality variety for best results.
Make Ahead:
This mousse can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to garnish it just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Optional Alcohol Twist:
If you want to add a little extra flavor complexity, you can mix a splash of vodka or white wine into the mousse base for a more indulgent twist.
Corrections/Adjustments:
Avocado Texture:
If the mousse seems too thick after blending, you can thin it out with a small amount of water, vegetable broth, or more olive oil.
Cream Consistency:
If you prefer a firmer mousse, reduce the amount of heavy cream. For a lighter mousse, increase the cream slightly.
Seasoning: Always taste the mousse before chilling. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if the flavors are too mild.
This Christmas Mousse with Avocado and Smoked Salmon is bound to be a hit at your holiday celebration, offering a delightful blend of rich flavors and a festive touch.