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When the sun starts to warm the air and the days grow longer, I find myself gravitating towards lighter, no-cook recipes that still feel indulgent. One such gem that has taken its rightful place in my kitchen is the Creamy No-Bake Mary Berry Salmon Mousse. From the very first bite, this silky mousse bursts with tangy salmon goodness, making it an irresistible choice for garden parties or casual get-togethers.

With minimal effort required, it’s a delightful way to impress guests while allowing you to enjoy the moment rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Picture this: smooth, creamy goodness adorned with fresh herbs and served alongside crunchy crackers—an elegant appetizer that’s both gluten-free and utterly crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking for something light to celebrate the season or simply want to elevate your appetizer game, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the details and create something special together!

Why will you adore Mary Berry Salmon Mousse?

Incredibly Simple: This no-bake recipe requires minimal effort, perfect for busy cooks who still want to wow their guests.
Creamy Delight: The luscious texture of cream cheese combined with salmon creates a flavorful experience in every bite.
Versatile Flavors: Change it up by swapping canned salmon for smoked, or toss in some olives for a Mediterranean twist!
Perfect for Gatherings: It’s an elegant dish that’s easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to enjoy the company of friends and family.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Everyone can indulge, making it suitable for various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Elegant Presentation: Serve it with crackers or veggie sticks, and watch as it becomes the star of your appetizer spread!

Mary Berry Salmon Mousse Ingredients

For the Mousse
• Cooked or Canned Salmon – Provides protein and a rich fish flavor; ensure it’s boneless for a smooth texture.
• Celery – Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with cucumber for a milder taste.
• Green Bell Pepper – Offers a slight sweetness and vibrant color; consider red or yellow peppers as alternatives.
• Onion – Balances the flavors and adds depth; use shallots for a milder taste if desired.
• Fresh Dill – Imparts a herbaceous aroma; dried dill can be substituted in smaller amounts.
• Mayonnaise – Contributes creaminess and richness; Greek yogurt can lighten it up effectively.
• Plain Yogurt – Enhances creaminess while reducing fat; buttermilk is another good option.
• Lemon Juice – Adds acidity for brightness; vinegar can serve as a replacement in a pinch.
• Cream Cheese – The base ingredient for the mousse, providing that smooth, creamy consistency; ricotta can work as a lower-fat substitute.
• Condensed Tomato Soup – Adds flavor and thickness to the mousse; pureed tomatoes or tomato passata are great replacements.
• Tabasco Sauce – For a little heat; adjust to taste based on your spice preference.
• Cold Water – Used to dissolve gelatin effectively.
• Unflavored Gelatin – Essential for setting the mousse; vegetarian alternatives like agar-agar may be used.

Optional Garnish
• Crackers or Vegetable Sticks – Perfect for serving alongside the mousse; they add texture and complement the flavors.

How to Make Mary Berry Salmon Mousse

Melt Cream Cheese: In a medium saucepan, gently heat your cream cheese over low heat until it becomes melted and smooth. This should take about 3-5 minutes; be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.
Mix in Tomato Soup: Stir in the condensed tomato soup and a few dashes of Tabasco sauce until everything is well blended and combined. You want a uniform color for your mousse base!
Combine the Salmon: In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked or canned salmon, chopped celery, bell pepper, onion, fresh dill, mayonnaise, plain yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Bloom the Gelatin: In a separate small saucepan, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over cold water. Allow it to bloom for about 5 minutes, then gently warm the mixture until the gelatin is fully dissolved, stirring to avoid lumps.
Incorporate the Gelatin: Pour the warm gelatin mixture into the bowl with the salmon ingredients. Stir the mixture slowly until all components are fully incorporated and the gelatin is evenly distributed.
Transfer and Chill: Carefully transfer the mousse mixture into a lightly oiled mold or individual bowls. Use a spatula to smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
Serve: To unmold, dip the mold in warm water for a few seconds to loosen it, then gently invert it onto a plate.

Optional: Garnish with fresh dill or serve with a selection of crackers for a delightful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Mary Berry Salmon Mousse

Gelatin Precision: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved without lumps. This step guarantees a perfectly set and smooth mousse, critical for Mary Berry Salmon Mousse.
Taste Before Setting: Always season the mixture before it sets. A pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Chill Time Matters: Allow for at least 6 hours of chilling, but overnight is best! This helps the mousse develop its flavors and achieve the right texture.
Presentation Perfection: For an impressive display, use a rustic serving board with crackers, fresh veggies, or olives to enhance your Mary Berry Salmon Mousse presentation.
Smooth Unmolding: To unmold effortlessly, dip the bottom of the mold in warm water. This trick helps the mousse slide out intact without any fuss.

Storage Tips for Mary Berry Salmon Mousse

Fridge: Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and the texture creamy.
Freezer: For longer storage, the mousse can be frozen for up to 1 month. Portion it into smaller containers for easy thawing.
Reheating: When ready to use, thaw the mousse in the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving, as this can alter the texture of the Mary Berry Salmon Mousse.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the mousse a day in advance to enhance flavor development. Just ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent any absorption of other scents from the fridge.

What to Serve with Mary Berry Salmon Mousse?

Creating a delightful dining experience is all about the perfect accompaniments that elevate your dish to the next level.

Crispy Crackers: The crunch of a variety of crackers adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mousse.
Crunchy Vegetable Sticks: Fresh, raw veggies like cucumbers or carrots not only provide a pleasing crunch but also bring a refreshing taste to balance the richness.
Lightly Dressed Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a zesty lemon vinaigrette complements the mousse’s rich flavors while adding a bright note.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the smokiness of salmon, enhancing the overall experience.
Soft Bread Rolls: Warm, crusty bread rolls are perfect for slathering with the mousse, creating a heavenly, indulgent bite.
Herbed Cream Cheese Dip: Add another layer of flavor with a herbed cream cheese dip served alongside for an appealing variation to enjoy.
Savory Olives: A small bowl of olives introduces a briny element which contrasts nicely with the mousse, making it an excellent snacking option.

Feel free to mix and match these pairings to create your own perfect platter!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy No-Bake Mary Berry Salmon Mousse make-ahead tips are ideal for busy cooks seeking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the entire mousse up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring a firm texture. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the chilling step, then transfer the mousse mixture into your mold or bowls, cover tightly, and refrigerate. To maintain its creamy consistency and prevent browning, ensure it’s wrapped well and stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply unmold the mousse and present it with your choice of crackers. Enjoy the ease of having an elegant dish ready at your fingertips!

Mary Berry Salmon Mousse Variations

Explore the delightful ways to customize this creamy treat, making it uniquely yours!

Smoky Twist: Swap canned salmon for smoked salmon to add a robust flavor profile that elevates this mousse to gourmet status.
Mediterranean Delight: Toss in some chopped olives or capers for a zesty Mediterranean flair that perfectly complements the creamy base.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or parsley in place of dill to create a new flavor dimension that suits your taste.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for an added kick that livens up your mousse wonderfully.
Creamy Alternatives: Use whipped avocado instead of cream cheese for a silky texture and a nutritious, green twist that’s sure to please.

For a heartier version, consider blending in some finely shredded carrots. This adds both color and a nutritious boost to your mousse, making it appealing and wholesome.

Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange juice along with the lemon for a bright, sweet contrast that will refresh your palate beautifully.
Texture Play: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully.

Mary Berry Salmon Mousse Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon for the mousse?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for boneless cooked or canned salmon. Look for bright, moist pieces without dark spots or overly dry areas. If you’re feeling adventurous, smoked salmon can give your mousse a delightful twist!

What’s the best way to store leftover salmon mousse?
To keep your Mary Berry Salmon Mousse fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent any odors from other foods in your fridge.

Can I freeze Mary Berry Salmon Mousse?
Yes, you can! Portion the mousse into smaller airtight containers and freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid using a microwave, as this may compromise its creamy texture.

What if my mousse doesn’t set properly?
Very! If you find that your mousse isn’t setting as expected, it could be that the gelatin wasn’t dissolved completely or was not enough. To troubleshoot, mix an additional tablespoon of gelatin with cold water, warm it until dissolved, and gently fold it into the mixture before chilling again. This should help it firm up nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, while this recipe is gluten-free, it’s essential to check the labels for all ingredients, especially for alternatives like mayonnaise or yogurt. If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, inform them about the ingredients, particularly regarding seafood allergies.

How long does the mousse need to chill before serving?
For the best flavors and set, chill your Mary Berry Salmon Mousse for at least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal. The longer it sits, the more pronounced the flavor profile will be, allowing those delicious elements to meld beautifully.