Salmon en Croûte is a delightful dish that combines tender salmon with a flaky puff pastry crust, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors. It's an elegant meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
The star of this dish is the salmon fillet, providing a hearty and healthy base. The puff pastry wraps the salmon in a golden, flaky crust that adds a touch of sophistication. Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick that complements the salmon's richness. A sprinkle of fresh dill adds an aromatic herbaceous note, while lemon zest infuses a burst of freshness. Finally, the beaten egg acts as a glue to seal the pastry and gives it that beautiful golden finish.
This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans are excellent side choices to complement the richness of the salmon and pastry.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's nice and hot when you're ready to bake. Next, sprinkle some flour on your work surface and roll out the puff pastry. You want it to be large enough to wrap around the salmon with a bit of extra room for sealing.
Now, lay your salmon fillet on a clean surface and slather it with Dijon mustard. This is your flavor base, so make sure it's evenly coated. Then, scatter the chopped dill and lemon zest over the mustard, giving the salmon a lovely, fragrant topping. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to season.
Carefully place the salmon in the center of your rolled-out pastry. Wrap the pastry around the salmon, ensuring all the edges are sealed. This is where you’ll use some of the beaten egg as glue along the seams. Brush the top of the pastry with more beaten egg to ensure a shiny, golden crust.
Transfer your wrapped salmon to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Slide it into the oven and let it bake for 25–30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the pastry is puffed up and a deep golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes to settle before slicing and serving.