Endive gratin with smoked salmon and lemon cream cheese

 

Endive gratin with smoked salmon, lemon cream, and melted cheese is a refined dish that plays on subtle and perfectly balanced contrasts. The delicate bitterness of the endive, softened by careful cooking, meets the elegant, salty flavor of the smoked salmon, while the lemon cream adds a tangy note that harmonizes the whole.

The melted cheese perfectly complements this harmony, adding a touch of indulgence and richness. Both comforting and elegant, this gratin is ideal for autumn and winter meals, but it also finds its place at a refined dinner party with friends.

Simple to make yet offering a neat presentation, this recipe highlights everyday ingredients with a festive touch, without requiring complex techniques.

 

Ingredients for 4 people

• 6 endives
• 4 large slices of smoked salmon (or 6 small ones)
• 20 cl of thick fresh cream
• 1 lemon (juice + a little zest)
• 100g of grated cheese (Gruyère, Emmental or Comté)
• 20g of butter
• Salt
• Freshly ground pepper
• 1 pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Why try this recipe?

• Elegant and original : it’s a change from the classic endive and ham gratin.
• Flavorful and balanced : a harmonious interplay between acidity, sweetness and saltiness.
• Easy to prepare : little technique required for a consistently appreciated result.
• Versatile : perfect as a main course or as a refined side dish.
• Convivial : a generous gratin that appeals to both fish lovers and the curious.

Step-by-step preparation

Prepare the endives

Remove any damaged outer leaves, then lightly hollow out the base of each endive to reduce bitterness. Steam them whole or cook them in a large pot of boiling salted water for 15 to 20 minutes, until very tender.

Drain them thoroughly, then gently squeeze out the excess water. This step is essential to prevent the gratin from becoming too watery.

Prepare the lemon cream

In a bowl, combine the heavy cream with the lemon juice and a little finely grated zest. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and add a pinch of nutmeg if desired. The sauce should be smooth, well-balanced, and pleasantly fragrant.