Mary Berry Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pate Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously simple yet elegant appetizer, Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and watercress pate recipe is a must-try!

It’s packed with flavor, blending the richness of smoked salmon with the fresh, peppery bite of watercress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a special treat for yourself, this pate is incredibly easy to whip up, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d find at a fine-dining restaurant. The balance of flavors and smooth texture makes it a crowd-pleaser every time, and it’s perfect for any occasion!

Mary Berry Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pate Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To craft Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté, you’ll need a delightful mix of fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a creamy, rich, and sophisticated spread. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need for the perfect pâté:

1. Smoked Salmon (200g)

   The star of the dish, smoked salmon, adds a luxurious, savory, and slightly smoky flavor to the pâté. Opt for a high-quality smoked salmon, preferably from a reputable source, to ensure the pâté has a smooth, refined taste. You can use either pre-sliced or whole fillets, as long as it’s finely chopped to achieve the right texture.

2. Watercress (A small bunch or around 50g)

   Watercress provides a peppery, fresh bite that balances the rich and creamy texture of the salmon. Its slightly bitter flavor pairs perfectly with the smoky fish, giving the pâté a refreshing contrast and vibrant green color. Fresh is best here, as it ensures maximum flavor.

3. Cream Cheese (150g)

   This ingredient brings a smooth, velvety creaminess that binds the salmon and watercress together. The cream cheese adds a tangy note, which beautifully complements the natural richness of the smoked salmon. You can opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor or go for a lighter option if you prefer.

4. Butter (50g)

   Softened butter adds an extra layer of richness and helps achieve the desired smooth consistency. It provides a subtle, creamy backdrop that helps to mellow the flavors of the smoked salmon, ensuring the pâté is not too overwhelming.

5. Lemon Juice (Juice of 1 lemon)

   Lemon juice offers a bright, zesty contrast to the richness of the other ingredients. It also acts as a natural flavor enhancer, bringing a touch of acidity to balance the creamy texture and smoky flavor of the salmon.

6. Fresh Dill (1 tablespoon, chopped)

   Dill, with its aromatic, slightly aniseed-like flavor, adds a lovely herbal freshness to the pâté. It complements both the watercress and the smoked salmon, tying together the dish with a hint of earthiness.

7. Salt and Pepper

   A pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper will help season the pâté to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Be sure to season carefully, tasting as you go to get the perfect balance.

8. A Splash of White Wine (Optional)

   Some recipes may include a dash of white wine, which imparts a subtle fruity note that elevates the flavor of the pâté. If you prefer a more refined, slightly acidic kick, this is an optional ingredient that adds a touch of sophistication.

Equipment Needed

Creating Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté requires minimal equipment, making it an easy yet elegant dish to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Food Processor or Blender

   A food processor or blender is essential for quickly combining the smoked salmon, watercress, and other ingredients into a smooth, creamy pâté. It ensures the right texture, blending everything into a spreadable consistency without any lumps.

2. Spatula or Spoon

   You’ll need a spatula or spoon to scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender as you blend the ingredients. This will ensure everything gets incorporated evenly and you don’t miss any bits of salmon or watercress.

3. Sharp Knife

   A sharp knife will be useful for chopping the smoked salmon and any herbs, like the dill. While the food processor does most of the work, some preliminary chopping helps to achieve a more even and consistent result.

4. Small Bowl for Tasting and Adjusting

   A small bowl will allow you to taste the pâté as you prepare it. This is particularly useful for adding the final touches of seasoning, such as salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice, ensuring the pâté is perfectly balanced.

5. Serving Dish or Spread Container

   Once your pâté is ready, you’ll need an attractive dish or serving container to present it. A shallow, wide dish allows for easy spreading, while a small, covered container is ideal for storing leftovers in the fridge.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pâté

Making this smoked salmon and watercress pâté is quick and easy, with minimal steps involved. Follow this guide to create a delicious, creamy spread perfect for any occasion:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the smoked salmon into smaller chunks, making it easier to blend.

   Rinse the watercress thoroughly, and roughly chop it, leaving a few whole leaves aside for garnish. If you’re using fresh dill, chop that finely as well.

2. Blend the Pâté

   In your food processor or blender, combine the smoked salmon, cream cheese, butter, lemon juice, fresh dill, and watercress. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

   Pulse the mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of white wine or even a bit of water to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Taste and Adjust

   Once blended, taste the pâté and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice for brightness or additional salt and pepper to balance the flavors. If you like, you can add a little more dill for an herbaceous kick.

4. Chill the Pâté

   Transfer the pâté to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps the pâté set, making it easier to spread.

5. Serve

   When you’re ready to serve, garnish the pâté with some whole watercress leaves or a sprinkle of fresh dill for a decorative touch. Serve with crackers, fresh bread, or even some thinly sliced cucumber or radishes for a delightful contrast of textures.

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh Smoked Salmon

   For the best flavor, choose high-quality smoked salmon. Freshly smoked salmon that’s not overly salty will give your pâté a delicate, natural smokiness that’s not overpowering.

2. Experiment with Herbs

   While dill is the classic herb pairing for smoked salmon, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, tarragon, or chives. These can bring a fresh twist to the pâté, depending on your preferences.

3. Perfect the Consistency

   If you find the pâté too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little bit of cream or a few more teaspoons of lemon juice or white wine. However, keep the texture creamy and spreadable-it should be smooth, not runny.

4. Serve with a Variety of Breads and Crackers

   To make the pâté even more delightful, serve it with a variety of crackers or toasted bread. Sourdough, rye, and whole grain breads are great choices, offering texture and flavor to complement the pâté.

5. Allow Time for Flavors to Develop

   As with most spreads and pâtés, the longer it sits, the better the flavors will develop. If you have time, let it chill for a few hours or even overnight to allow the smoked salmon and watercress flavors to fully infuse into the creamy base.

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté is a simple yet sophisticated dish that captures the essence of elegant home cooking. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a velvety, flavorful pâté that’s perfect for any gathering-whether served as an appetizer, part of a brunch spread, or even as a light snack.

Its smoky richness, balanced by the freshness of watercress and lemon, is sure to impress guests and satisfy even the most discerning palates. By following these easy steps and expert tips, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pâté

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté is a classic, rich, and flavorful spread that combines the delicate flavors of smoked salmon with the earthy freshness of watercress.

But what if you want to switch things up?

There are a few easy variations you can try to customize this recipe, whether you’re in the mood for something more decadent or prefer a lighter, tangier alternative.

1. Herb Infusion

   While watercress brings a lovely peppery flavor, adding a handful of fresh herbs can elevate your pâté even further. Consider adding dill, tarragon, or chives.

   Dill pairs wonderfully with smoked salmon, offering a subtle, aromatic contrast. If you’re a fan of a Mediterranean flavor profile, fresh basil or parsley could be intriguing additions. Simply chop the herbs finely and fold them into the pâté mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Cream Cheese Twist

   If you’re craving a creamier, more indulgent version, swap some of the mascarpone cheese or sour cream for cream cheese. This will give your pâté a thicker, more velvety texture. You can also experiment by adding a touch of lemon zest to balance out the richness of the cream cheese and enhance the fresh taste of the watercress.

3. Add a Citrus Kick

   For a zesty alternative, infuse your pâté with citrus flavors. A squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice can introduce a fresh, tangy punch that contrasts the smoky richness of the salmon.

   Orange zest could also work well if you’re looking for a sweet, fragrant note to complement the savory flavors. For a more complex citrus flavor, try adding some grapefruit segments, finely chopped, for a surprising burst of sweetness.

4. Smoked Salmon Variations

   While traditional smoked salmon is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of smoked fish. Smoked mackerel, trout, or even a rich, oily fish like sardines could give the pâté an interesting twist. A combination of smoked salmon and another fish like smoked haddock can also provide a deeper, smokier flavor.

5. Spicy Smoked Salmon Pâté

   If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a small amount of finely chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can also complement the smokiness of the salmon, giving the pâté a subtle warmth. Experiment with chili oils or even a splash of wasabi for a more exotic variation.

6. Vegetarian Option

   For those who prefer a plant-based version, you can swap the smoked salmon for mashed avocado or roasted vegetables like beets or carrots. By keeping the watercress and adding complementary ingredients such as lemon juice, garlic, and a little tahini, you can create a fresh, vibrant, and creamy vegetarian pâté that’s just as indulgent as the original.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté, don’t worry-this delicious spread can be stored and enjoyed for several days, as long as you follow the best practices for keeping it fresh.

1. Use an Airtight Container

   The most important step in storing pâté is ensuring that it is kept in an airtight container. This will prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge and help preserve its flavor and texture. Choose a container that is just the right size for the amount of pâté, as this will minimize the amount of air exposure.

2. Cover with Plastic Wrap

   To prevent the pâté from forming a dry, crusty layer, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the spread before sealing the container. This will help maintain its smooth consistency.

3. Refrigeration

   Store the pâté in the refrigerator as soon as it has cooled to room temperature. The cold will help maintain the freshness of the ingredients, especially the smoked salmon, which can spoil quickly if left at room temperature. It’s best to consume the pâté within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.

4. Freezing Option

   While pâté is generally best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers if you need to store them longer. To do this, transfer the pâté into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’s worth noting that freezing might slightly alter the texture, so you may need to mix it again after thawing to restore its creamy consistency.

5. Serve Chilled, Not Frozen

   When you’re ready to serve your leftover pâté, always allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. Serving it cold is key to preserving its delicate texture and flavors, so avoid microwaving or reheating it. The pâté will regain its original texture once it has had time to chill and set back up in the fridge.

What Goes Well With Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pâté

Pairing Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté with the right accompaniments can turn a simple dish into an extraordinary meal or appetizer. Here are a few suggestions to complement the rich, creamy flavors of the pâté:

1. Crusty Bread and Crackers

   A classic pairing for any pâté is a variety of crusty bread or crackers. Consider offering sliced baguette, sourdough, or pumpernickel bread for their hearty, chewy texture. Water crackers or buttery, flaky crackers like Ritz are perfect for adding a light, crisp contrast to the smooth pâté.

2. Fresh Vegetables

   To balance out the richness, fresh, crunchy vegetables can add a delightful bite. Cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or radishes bring a crisp, refreshing element that cuts through the creaminess of the pâté. If you’re serving the pâté as part of a larger platter, you can include some cherry tomatoes, olives, and pickled onions for a zesty contrast.

3. Citrus Fruits

   Citrus fruits like lemon wedges, or even segments of orange, can work wonderfully alongside smoked salmon pâté. The acidity and brightness of citrus help cleanse the palate, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spread.

4. Salad Greens

   For a lighter dish, you can serve the pâté atop a simple salad of mixed greens or watercress. This not only enhances the fresh, peppery flavor of the pâté but also adds a layer of lightness that balances its richness.

5. Chilled White Wine or Champagne

   To complement the smoothness of the pâté, consider pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine or Champagne. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs particularly well with the smoky, creamy flavors, while a glass of bubbly adds an elegant touch.

6. Soft Cheese

   For an extra layer of indulgence, add a few mild, creamy cheeses to the spread. Brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese would work well alongside the pâté, giving guests a range of textures and flavors to explore.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon and Watercress Pâté is a sophisticated yet simple dish that elevates any occasion. With its smoky richness and refreshing peppery bite, it can be easily adapted to suit various tastes, from spicier versions to creamy, tangy alternatives.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that this delightful treat can be enjoyed for several days, and pairing it with complementary foods such as crusty bread, fresh vegetables, or a glass of white wine can transform it into a perfect appetizer or light meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this pâté promises to impress with its versatility and delicate flavors.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pate Recipe?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and watercress pate are smoked salmon, watercress, cream cheese, lemon juice, butter, salt, and pepper. You may also need some fresh dill for garnish, depending on your preference.

How Do You Prepare The Smoked Salmon For The Pate?

For the pate, the smoked salmon is chopped into small pieces. You can use pre-sliced smoked salmon or break apart whole fillets. It’s important that the salmon is finely chopped so it blends well into the creamy base of the pate.

Can I Substitute Watercress With Another Green Herb?

Yes, if you don’t have watercress, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs like rocket (arugula), spinach, or even parsley, although watercress gives the pate a distinct peppery flavor.

How Long Does The Pate Need To Chill Before Serving?

For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to chill the pate for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the pate to firm up slightly.

Can The Pate Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this pate can be made ahead of time. In fact, preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop further. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pate?

This pate pairs beautifully with toasted bread or crackers, sliced vegetables like cucumber or carrots, or even on a bed of leafy greens. You can also serve it as a canapé on small toast rounds for a party.

Can I Use Low-fat Cream Cheese In The Recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese in place of regular cream cheese if you want a lighter version of the pate. However, keep in mind that the texture might be a little less creamy, but it should still work well.

Is There A Vegan Version Of Mary Berry’s Smoked Salmon And Watercress Pate?

While the original recipe contains smoked salmon and cream cheese, you can create a vegan version by using smoked tofu or vegan smoked salmon as a substitute for the fish, and a plant-based cream cheese alternative for the creamy base.

How Can I Make The Pate More Flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can add a touch of horseradish, Dijon mustard, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Fresh herbs like dill or chives also complement the flavors of the salmon and watercress.

How Should I Store Any Leftover Pate?

Leftover pate should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically last for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to check the texture and smell before consuming it to ensure it’s still fresh.