Smoked Salmon Mousse

Over the years I have helped my brother-in-law George cater many events in the Washington, DC area, private and political along with many military events, retirements, promotions and unfortunately, funerals. The budgets went from minimal to extravagant as one would imagine. One such political event that we catered involved a variety of canapes and appetizers, from lobster crostini to mini beef wellingtons to salmon mousse over crackers.  I was lucky enough to be able to collaborate and create many of these high-end appetizers because I love to cook and cater events.

This is an easy Salmon Mouse recipe that you can make at home for any of the holiday parties you will produce in the coming months, or even to bring into the office party.  This recipe makes about 2 1/2 cups.

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese room temperature

4 ounces smoked salmon cold

1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

cayenne, salt and pepper to taste

I use a food processor to combine the first four ingredients until smooth.  Once blended smooth, add in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne. Taste test to ensure it is to your liking, then add more cayenne if you like, then add in salt or pepper to taste Serve cold over crackers, small toasts, bagel chips or cucumber slices. Top with a small piece of dill to make it look more fancy to your guests.  Its always good to make an effort with your appetizers so that your guests feel special and think you went to so much trouble just for them. Even if the recipe was a quicky. Tip, you can make this a day in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy!  

 Author Elizabeth Kilbride is a former political operative, author, scriptwriter, historian, journalist. business professional, and creative artist, and life coach consultant. Ms. Kilbride holds a Masters in Criminology and a BS in Business Management who stepped out of the loop for a while, but who is now back with a powerful opinion and voice in the direction of this country and our economy. As a life coach, she is available to counsel individuals to enjoy their dreams and a better life. Ms. Kilbride loves to travel, photograph her surroundings and is also a gourmet cook who loves to garden and preserve food for the winter months.