This classic recipe is perfect for entertaining as it can be prepared in advance. Not only is it quick and easy to make but also tastes great and is ideal for any time of the year
Serves: 4-6
TOP TIP:
Get ahead of the game by preparing and assembling in advance, then cover and chill in the fridge for up to 3 hours before cooking
INGREDIENTS:
500g (18oz) salmon fillet, skin removed
500g (18oz) spinach, washed
500g (18oz) block puff pastry
Olive oil
2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
25g (1oz) curly parsley leaves, finely chopped
25g (1oz) basil leaves, finely chopped
20g (1oz) tarragon leaves, finely chopped
75g (2½oz) soft cheese
Plain flour for dusting
1 medium egg, beaten
METHOD:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180° Fan/Gas 6. Heat a large pan over a high heat, add the spinach and cover with a lid to steam for 2-3 minutes, stir occasionally until wilted. Drain any liquid thoroughly and leave to cool, then lay the spinach between several sheets of kitchen paper and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Finely chop and put into a bowl.
2. Heat a little oil in a small frying pan, add the shallots and garlic and fry gently for 5 minutes until soft. Allow to cool before adding to the spinach, stir in the herbs and cream cheese and season to taste.
3. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the pastry into a rectangle roughly 28cm x 30cm and about 5mm thick. Spread half the spinach mixture onto one side of the pastry (allowing space of about 2cm from the edge to fold the pastry over). Lay the salmon on top, then spread the remaining spinach mix on top in an even layer.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with a little beaten egg then fold over to cover the salmon. Press down around the edges and trim away the excess pastry then crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Transfer to a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper then brush with the remaining egg.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to stand for 5 minutes, slice into 4–6 pieces checking that the salmon is cooked through, if not return to the oven for 5 minutes. Serve with buttered new potatoes and seasonal green vegetables.
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