Salmon and Arugula Tart

These make a lovely appetizer to serve company no matter the occasion. The salmon is used as a garnish and with the use of store bought puff pastry, it is a snap to prepare.

• 1/2 lb. puff pastry, thawed
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 1 leek, white part only, finely sliced
• 3 cups baby arugula leaves
• 1/2 lime, juice only
• pinch of salt
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup homemade creme fraiche
• 8 oz. cold smoked salmon, sliced thin

In a skillet on medium heat, melt the butter and add the leeks until softened. Add the arugula and cook for 3-4 minutes until just wilted and bright green in colour. Remove from the heat and let cool.

Combine the leek mixture with the creme fraiche, lime juice and season with the salt.

Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 4 squares and with a sharp knife, score (do not cut through) a line 1/4 inch into each square. With a fork, now poke the middle of the pastry and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 16-18 minutes until puffed and golden. Remove from the oven and let cool a few minutes. Lay slices of the salmon on top and add a small dollop of creme fraiche on top.

Obviously the amounts used vary on the number of persons being served. Just judge accordingly. Remember, it is only an appetizer, not the whole meal. Serve with a lovely Chardonnay of your choice.

To make your own creme fraiche (far, far better than store bought) use 1/2 cup whipping cream – 1/2 cup buttermilk. Mix together and put in a sealable container and let sit on the counter for 2 days. Then place in the fridge until ready to serve. Will keep for a week.

Yummy.