Cake au Saumon Fumé et Courgettes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchinis. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and gently squeeze out any excess moisture. This will help prevent the cake from becoming too soggy. Set the zucchini aside.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a small pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, crème fraîche, and olive oil. Beat until smooth and well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
5. Combine the Vegetables and Salmon: Stir in the grated zucchini, sautéed onion, smoked salmon pieces, and grated cheese. Add the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the salmon and zucchini are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with olive oil or butter, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 40-50 Minutes: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the cake with aluminum foil to prevent it from overcooking.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

   This savory cake can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Cake au Saumon Fumé et Courgettes is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: Slice the cake into thin, elegant pieces and serve it with a light salad, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of crème fraîche.
• Main Dish: Pair it with a green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
• For Brunch or Picnics: Serve it sliced alongside other savory pastries, salads, or even fresh fruit for a beautiful brunch spread or picnic lunch.

Variations & Customization:

One of the joys of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ways you can customize your Cake au Saumon Fumé et Courgettes:

• Cheese Options: While Gruyère and Emmental are the traditional choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy twist, or cheddar for a more robust flavor.
• Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of dill, you can use fresh basil, tarragon, or parsley. Each herb will give the cake a distinct flavor that complements the smoked salmon beautifully.
• Add More Vegetables: If you love extra veggies, you can add finely chopped spinach, leeks, or bell peppers to the mix for more flavor and color.

Health Benefits:

• Zucchini: This low-carb vegetable is rich in fiber and antioxidants, providing a good dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in calories, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without the extra carbs.
• Smoked Salmon: A great source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and B-vitamins, smoked salmon adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Crème Fraîche: Rich in fats, crème fraîche adds a creamy texture while providing beneficial probiotics when consumed in moderation.

Conclusion:

Cake au Saumon Fumé et Courgettes is a flavorful, elegant dish that offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to serve something unique yet simple, whether it’s for a formal dinner or a casual gathering. With its savory richness from the smoked salmon and its lightness from the zucchini, this French-inspired cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Try this savory cake for your next gathering, and you’ll quickly find that it’s both a crowd-pleaser and a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold, any time of year!