Glass Tartine

Glass tartine, also known as “Verrines” in French, are an elegant and easy-to-prepare appetizer. They can vary greatly in terms of ingredients and presentation. Here I will provide you with a basic recipe that you can adapt according to your tastes and the ingredients you have available.

Ingredients

• White bread or sandwich bread, 4 slices
• Soft cream cheese like Philadelphia, 200 g
• Smoked salmon, 100 g
• Ripe avocado, 1
• Lemon juice, from 1 lemon
• Black pepper, to taste
• Chives, chopped, for garnish
• Salt, to taste

Preparation

1. Cut the bread into small cubes and toast them lightly in the oven or in a pan until they become crispy.

2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and make vertical and horizontal incisions to create cubes, then gently scoop them out with a spoon.

3. In a bowl, mix the avocado with a little lemon juice, salt, and pepper to prevent it from turning brown and to season it.

4. Cut the smoked salmon into thin strips or cubes, depending on your preference.

5. To assemble the tartine in a glass: distribute a layer of toasted bread cubes at the bottom of each glass, then add a layer of soft cream cheese, followed by a layer of avocado, and finally one of smoked salmon.

6. Garnish with chopped chives and a pinch of black pepper.

7. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled. Try to press down the ingredients lightly to create a nice compact layer that is pleasing to see and eat.

Curiosity

The French “verrines” are a creative way to serve appetizers, desserts, and even main courses in transparent glasses. They keep the layers well separated, allowing to appreciate the contrast of colors and different textures of the ingredients. This type of presentation emphasizes both the aesthetics and the taste of the dish.

To accommodate your tastes or needs, feel free to replace the salmon with other proteins or use different vegetables, such as diced tomatoes seasoned with oil, basil, and salt.