# Components:
→ Puff Pastry Stars
01 - 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
02 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
03 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
→ Herbed Cream Cheese
04 - 7 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
07 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Assembly
09 - 5.3 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
10 - 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
11 - 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
12 - Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
13 - Lemon wedges, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
02 - Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out star shapes and place them on the prepared baking tray.
03 - Brush each star with beaten egg and sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds.
04 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the stars are puffed and golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
05 - In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with chopped dill, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
06 - Once cooled, carefully slice each star horizontally into two halves. Spread a generous layer of herbed cream cheese on the bottom half.
07 - Top the cream cheese layer with smoked salmon slices, cucumber slices, and a few capers. Place the top half of the star over the fillings.
08 - Arrange the assembled stars on a festive platter, garnish with fresh dill sprigs, and serve alongside lemon wedges.
