Spinach Dutch Baby Smoked Salmon: A Delicious & Healthy Brunch Recipe

Spinach Dutch Baby Smoked Salmon: Prepare to be amazed by this show-stopping brunch centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make! Imagine a fluffy, oven-baked pancake, puffed to golden perfection, infused with the earthy goodness of spinach, and crowned with delicate, smoky salmon. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have your guests begging for the recipe.

The Dutch Baby, also known as a German pancake, has humble roots in early 20th-century American cuisine, likely inspired by German pancakes. While traditionally sweet, savory variations like this one are gaining popularity for their versatility and sophisticated appeal. This Spinach Dutch Baby Smoked Salmon elevates the classic dish to new heights.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of the airy, slightly eggy pancake with the rich, salty salmon. The spinach adds a subtle vegetal note that balances the flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Simply whisk together the batter, pour it into a hot skillet, and let the oven do the work. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a luxurious weekend breakfast, this Spinach Dutch Baby Smoked Salmon is guaranteed to impress.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dutch Baby:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk, room temperature
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the pan
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Smoked Salmon Topping:
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Red onion, thinly sliced for garnish
• Optional: Capers for garnish

Preparing the Spinach

Before we dive into the Dutch Baby batter, let’s get the spinach ready. This step adds a lovely savory element to our dish and prevents the spinach from being too watery in the final product.

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet.
4. Cook the spinach, stirring occasionally, until it wilts and reduces in volume. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the spinach aside to cool slightly.

Making the Dutch Baby Batter

The key to a great Dutch Baby is a smooth, well-mixed batter. Room temperature ingredients are crucial for achieving this, so make sure your milk and eggs aren’t straight from the fridge!

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or oven-safe skillet) in the oven while it preheats. This is essential for the Dutch Baby to puff up properly.
2. While the oven is preheating, prepare the batter. In a blender, combine the flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Blend the ingredients until the batter is completely smooth. This usually takes about 30-60 seconds. Make sure there are no lumps!
4. Remove the hot skillet from the oven with oven mitts (it will be VERY hot!).
5. Add a tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom and sides. This prevents the Dutch Baby from sticking and adds a delicious buttery flavor.
6. Pour the prepared batter into the hot skillet.
7. Evenly distribute the cooked spinach over the batter in the skillet.

Baking the Dutch Baby

Now comes the fun part – watching the Dutch Baby puff up in the oven! Resist the urge to open the oven door during baking, as this can cause it to deflate.

1. Carefully place the skillet with the batter into the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Dutch Baby is puffed up and golden brown around the edges. The center should still be slightly soft.
3. Remove the skillet from the oven with oven mitts. Be careful, as the skillet will still be very hot!

Preparing the Smoked Salmon Topping

While the Dutch Baby is baking, let’s prepare the smoked salmon topping. This simple mixture adds a creamy, tangy, and savory element that perfectly complements the Dutch Baby.

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Assembling and Serving

The final step is to assemble the Dutch Baby and enjoy! This is best served immediately while the Dutch Baby is still warm and puffed up.

1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the baked Dutch Baby.
2. Arrange the thinly sliced smoked salmon over the cream cheese.
3. If desired, garnish with thinly sliced red onion and capers.
4. Serve immediately. The Dutch Baby will start to deflate as it cools, but it will still taste delicious!

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Spinach Dutch Baby with Smoked Salmon turns out perfectly:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This is crucial for a smooth batter and proper puffing.
• Preheat the skillet: A hot skillet is essential for the Dutch Baby to rise properly.
• Don’t open the oven door: Resist the urge to peek while the Dutch Baby is baking, as this can cause it to deflate.
• Adjust baking time as needed: Ovens vary, so adjust the baking time accordingly. The Dutch Baby should be golden brown and puffed up, but the center should still be slightly soft.
• Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings based on your preferences. Other great options include avocado, everything bagel seasoning, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try:

• Different greens: Substitute the spinach with kale, arugula, or chard. Just make sure to cook them down properly before adding them to the batter.
• Different cheeses: Try using goat cheese or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add herbs to the batter: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the smoked salmon and add roasted vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Sweet Dutch Baby: Skip the spinach and smoked salmon and top with fresh berries, powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet treat.

Storage

Dutch Babies are best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Keep in mind that the Dutch Baby will deflate and lose some of its crispness when stored.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it combines the simplicity of a Dutch Baby with the sophisticated flavors of spinach and smoked salmon. The savory spinach adds a delicious depth of flavor, while the creamy cream cheese and salty smoked salmon create a perfect balance. The Dutch Baby itself provides a light and airy base that allows the toppings to shine. Plus, it’s a relatively quick and easy recipe to make, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.

Nutritional Information (approximate)

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Fat: 25-35g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Enjoy your delicious Spinach Dutch Baby with Smoked Salmon!

Conclusion:

This Spinach Dutch Baby with Smoked Salmon isn’t just breakfast; it’s a brunch masterpiece waiting to happen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it effortlessly blends savory and subtly sweet flavors into one impressive, yet surprisingly simple, dish. The airy, eggy puff of the Dutch Baby, infused with the earthy goodness of spinach, provides the perfect canvas for the rich, smoky salmon and creamy dill sauce. It’s a delightful textural experience, from the crispy edges to the soft, custardy center.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve highlighted the Spinach Dutch Baby with Smoked Salmon combination, feel free to get creative. For a vegetarian option, consider swapping the smoked salmon for roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese would add a lovely salty tang. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter for a subtle kick.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Brunch Perfection: Serve warm, straight from the oven, with a side of fresh fruit salad and a mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience.
* Elegant Appetizer: Cut the Dutch Baby into smaller squares and serve as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
* Breakfast for Dinner: Who says you can’t have breakfast for dinner? This recipe is quick and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.
* Dill Sauce Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of dill, try a horseradish cream sauce or a simple lemon-herb vinaigrette.
* Cheese Please: A sprinkle of Gruyere or Parmesan cheese before baking adds a nutty, savory depth.
* Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce to the dill sauce for a spicy kick.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The combination of the light and fluffy Dutch Baby, the nutritious spinach, and the luxurious smoked salmon creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed. I’m so excited for you to try this Spinach Dutch Baby Smoked Salmon recipe!

And please, don’t be shy! Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you make any substitutions? I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to improve my recipes, and your feedback is invaluable. Happy baking, and bon appétit! I can’t wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create!