Pizza with Smoked Salmon and Dill
Highlighted under: Fusion Kitchen
I absolutely love making this Pizza with Smoked Salmon and Dill whenever I want a special treat. The combination of savory smoked salmon with the bright notes of fresh dill creates a pizza that's not just delicious but also captivating. It's quick to prepare, and I often serve it for brunch with a refreshing salad on the side. This recipe has become a standout favorite in my home, and I can't wait to share it with you!
When I first experimented with smoked salmon on pizza, I was blown away by the depth of flavor it added. The luxurious texture of the salmon combined with the creamy cheese creates a delightful contrast that's hard to resist. I also found that adding a sprinkle of lemon juice right before serving really elevates the dish.
In experimenting with the toppings, I learned that fresh dill is the perfect herb to complement the salmon; its mild flavor lets the star ingredient shine. This preparation method has made this pizza an instant classic in my household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully unique flavor profile with a perfect balance of smoky and fresh
- Quick to whip up, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings
- A beautiful presentation that impresses guests at any meal
Perfecting Your Pizza Crust
Choosing the right pizza crust can greatly influence the final outcome of your dish. For this recipe, a pre-made crust saves time and simplifies preparation, allowing you to focus on the toppings. However, if you enjoy a homemade touch, consider using a thin crust for crispiness or a thicker one for a heartier bite. Regardless of your choice, make sure to par-bake the crust for about 5 minutes before adding toppings if it's not pre-baked; this helps achieve a golden, crispy base without any sogginess.
Ensuring your oven is preheated to the correct temperature is crucial. An oven set at 220°C (425°F) allows the cheese to melt evenly while developing a lovely golden color on the crust. Also, consider rotating your pizza halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots. This simple technique can help you avoid uneven cooking and ensures that every slice is as delicious as the last.
Balancing Flavors
Each ingredient in this pizza contributes to its unique flavor profile. The cream cheese base offers a rich, creamy texture that complements the smoky depth of the salmon. Adding lemon zest brightens the dish and contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese and salmon. Don't skip this step; a pinch of zest elevates the entire experience, making each bite refreshing and well-rounded.
For serving variations, consider pairing this pizza with a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. The peppery flavor of arugula works beautifully with the rich smoked salmon and creamy cheese. Alternatively, serving it with a dollop of crème fraîche can add a luxurious touch, enhancing the flavors while maintaining the freshness of the meal.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious smoked salmon pizza.
For the Pizza
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 200g smoked salmon, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now you’re ready to make your pizza!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to assemble your pizza.
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Ensure your pizza crust is ready on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Spread the Base
Spread the cream cheese evenly over the pizza crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Add Toppings
Layer the smoked salmon slices, red onion, and chopped dill over the cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Bake the Pizza
Bake your pizza in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Once removed from the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, add more dill if desired, slice, and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious pizza!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of sour cream over the pizza before serving.
Ideal Presentation Tips
Presentation can turn a simple meal into an impressive dish worthy of any brunch table. After baking, ensure you let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing the toppings from sliding off when served. For an upscale touch, finish with additional fresh dill and a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their slices.
Another impressive touch is to drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the pizza before serving. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some capers on top for a briny contrast that complements the salmon perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is crucial to maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will stay fresh for up to three days. For best results when reheating, place slices in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, just until heated through. This will revive the crust's crispiness, ensuring each bite is just as delightful as when it was first made.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pizza prior to baking it. Assemble the pizza up to the baking step, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it again, bake it straight from the freezer—no need to thaw! Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time and adjust to ensure it's cooked through—this ensures you always have a gourmet option on hand for spontaneous gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! You can substitute smoked trout or even grilled shrimp for the salmon.
→ What if I don't have dill?
You can use fresh chives or parsley as alternatives, though the flavor will vary.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the toppings in advance, but it's best to bake the pizza fresh for optimal texture.
→ Is the pizza suitable for freezing?
It's not recommended to freeze the pizza with smoked salmon, as the fish's texture may change upon thawing.
Pizza with Smoked Salmon and Dill
I absolutely love making this Pizza with Smoked Salmon and Dill whenever I want a special treat. The combination of savory smoked salmon with the bright notes of fresh dill creates a pizza that's not just delicious but also captivating. It's quick to prepare, and I often serve it for brunch with a refreshing salad on the side. This recipe has become a standout favorite in my home, and I can't wait to share it with you!
What You'll Need
For the Pizza
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 200g smoked salmon, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Ensure your pizza crust is ready on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Spread the cream cheese evenly over the pizza crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Layer the smoked salmon slices, red onion, and chopped dill over the cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Bake your pizza in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
Once removed from the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, add more dill if desired, slice, and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of sour cream over the pizza before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g