Some dishes are loud and complicated, but this one is the opposite, it’s quiet, simple, and feels a little bit special from the first moment you plate it.
When I lay out the smoked salmon, the prosciutto, and the small spoonful of caviar, the kitchen takes on this calm, elegant feeling that doesn’t require any effort.
I love how everything comes together with just a few ingredients.
The salty prosciutto, the smooth salmon, and the tiny pop of caviar create a balance that feels indulgent without being heavy.
What I enjoy most is how clean every bite tastes, soft, salty, buttery, and crisp all at once. It’s a little treat I reach for when I want something simple that still feels thoughtful.
And if you’ve been wanting a dish that feels fancy but stays easy, this one is worth trying. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for slow evenings or small celebrations.
Why I Enjoy Making This Plate

I like making this because it always feels simple to put together. The ingredients already have so much flavor that I barely have to think about it.
There’s something relaxing about arranging everything on a plate. A few folds of salmon, a ribbon of prosciutto, a small spoon of caviar and it suddenly looks special.
I also enjoy how clean the flavors taste. Nothing feels heavy, and every bite has its own little moment.
And I love that I can add or remove things depending on my mood. Some days it’s herbs, some days it’s lemon, but it always turns out nice.
Gougères with Smoked Salmon, Caviar, and Prosciutto
Equipment
- Small serving board or plate
- Sharp Knife
- Small spoon
- Tongs
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
Main Plate
- 6–8 slices smoked salmon buttery and savory
- 6 slices prosciutto salty and delicate
- 2–3 tsp Caviar adds a soft briny pop
Extras (Optional but Great)
- Lemon wedges for brightness
- Fresh dill or chives for freshness
- Crackers or toasted bread for crunch
- Cream cheese or mascarpone adds creaminess
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff PastryCut the puff pastry sheets into circles slightly larger than your muffin cups.Press each circle gently into the tin, this will help the pastry puff into a neat, bowl-like shape.
- Bake the Pastry ShellsBake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes or until crisp and golden. The layers should rise and separate slightly, forming a light, flaky cup.
- Cool the Pastry CompletelyRemove the shells from the tin and let them cool on a rack. If they’re warm, the filling will melt, so make sure they cool fully.
- Prepare the Cream ToppingIn a small bowl, whisk crème fraîche or whipped cream cheese until smooth. You can add a pinch of lemon zest or black pepper if you want a bit more flavor.
- Fold the Smoked SalmonSlice the smoked salmon into long, soft ribbons. Fold each ribbon loosely so it fits naturally into the pastry cups without being packed tight.
- Fill Each Pastry CupAdd the folded smoked salmon inside each cup, keeping the texture light and airy. The pastry should still be visible around the edges.
- Add the CreamPlace a small spoonful of your cream mixture on top of the salmon. This adds a smooth layer that balances the saltiness.
- Finish With Caviar & ProsciuttoTop each cup with a small spoon of caviar for a clean, briny pop. Add a small ribbon of prosciutto on the side and finish with fresh herbs like dill or chives.
- Serving StepServe these cups chilled so the pastry stays crisp and the toppings stay firm. They work beautifully as an appetizer for gatherings or as a small, refined bite.
Nutrition
How This Helps on Busy or Holidays

This plate fits easily into my day because it doesn’t need cooking or timing. I can put it together in minutes, even when I’m tired or short on time.
It works well with almost anything I’m eating. Some days it’s a starter, other days it becomes a light meal on its own.
I also like serving it when people come over. It looks thoughtful without needing extra steps from me.
And on quiet evenings, it feels like a small treat I made just for myself. A simple plate, a few clean flavors, and a moment to slow down.
What to Serve With This
- Toasted baguette slices
- Herbed cream cheese
- Crisp cucumber slices
- Olives
- Pickled onions
- A light green salad
Conclusion
Every time I put this plate together, it reminds me how nice it is to enjoy food that doesn’t ask for much.
Just a few good ingredients, a quiet moment at the counter, and it feels like I’ve made something meaningful.
It’s the kind of dish I reach for when I want to slow down and eat something that feels a little special without any effort.
And I like that it always brings a small sense of calm, the kind that makes the whole meal feel easier.















marc
Sunday 24th of November 2024
this is the biggest mess ever... the recipe title is Gougères but yet the recipe calls for baguettes to make crostini and then the pics are mixed crostini with salmon and caviar and crostini with tomatoes and capers etc. need to get your act together...
James Taylor
Monday 30th of December 2024
Hi Marc, I apologize for the confusion. You're absolutely right that the recipe title and the photos should align more clearly. The crostini mentioned in the recipe were intended as a base for the toppings, but I can see how the mixed photos and instructions caused some misunderstanding. I've updated the post to clarify the recipe and improve the visuals to match the ingredients. Thanks for your feedback, and I appreciate your understanding as I work to make this clearer!