Flammkuchen with Smoked Salmon

Name: Flammkuchen with Smoked Salmon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g all-purpose flour; 150ml water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 200g crème fraîche; 150g smoked salmon; 50g arugula; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh dill for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Inspiration

I absolutely love making Flammkuchen with smoked salmon! This dish combines a crisp and thin crust topped with creamy crème fraîche, delicate smoked salmon, and fresh arugula for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in. I adore the blend of textures and the way the subtle smokiness of the salmon complements the fresh toppings. Plus, this recipe comes together quickly, making it easy to whip up for any occasion!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:41:35.519Z

When I first experimented with Flammkuchen, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it could be! I decided to add smoked salmon for a culinary twist that elevates the dish. The key is to not overwhelm the base with toppings. Use just enough crème fraîche to create a creamy blanket that complements the salmon without hiding its flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to bake the crust until it's golden brown and crispy – that way, it holds up beautifully against the moisture of the toppings. It also helps to let it cool slightly before slicing; this keeps everything intact for the perfect bite every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy and thin crust that provides the perfect base
Fresh and unique combination of flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Perfect Crust

Achieving the ideal crust for Flammkuchen is crucial to the overall success of the dish. When mixing the dough, take care not to overwork it, as this may lead to a tough texture. Kneading it for about 5 minutes until smooth should suffice. A well-formed dough should be elastic and slightly tacky to the touch. Letting it rest for 20 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out into a thin layer, which is essential for achieving that signature crispness.

An oven temperature of 250°C (482°F) is optimal when baking your Flammkuchen. This high heat creates a quick, intense environment that crisps the edges while keeping the center just right. If using a pizza stone, be sure it's fully heated before transferring the dough onto it. The stone will absorb moisture from the dough, resulting in a superior crunch. Always keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking—once the edges turn golden brown, it's time to pull it out!

Flavor Combinations and Toppings

The combination of crème fraîche and smoked salmon is not only delicious but also brings a pleasing creaminess and depth to each bite. Crème fraîche is a slightly tangy and rich ingredient that holds up well in high heat, allowing it to form a beautiful layer under the toppings. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt, though it might impart a slightly different flavor. Experimenting with different types of smoked fish can also add unique elements to the dish.

Don't underestimate the role of fresh arugula; its peppery flavor beautifully contrasts with the richness of the crème fraîche and smoked salmon. Adding arugula right after baking ensures it maintains its freshness and vibrant color. You can also consider variations, such as switching arugula for baby spinach or adding capers for a burst of briny flavor. These subtle adjustments can elevate your Flammkuchen, offering a new experience each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful Flammkuchen!

For the Dough

250g all-purpose flour
150ml water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

200g crème fraîche
150g smoked salmon
50g arugula
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh dill for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything measured before beginning the recipe!

Instructions

Let’s get started on creating this mouthwatering Flammkuchen!

Make the Dough

In a bowl, mix the flour, water, olive oil, and salt until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thin as possible into a rectangle shape.

Add the Topping

Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Top with sliced red onions, salt, and pepper.

Bake

Transfer the Flammkuchen to a baking sheet or heated pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges are crispy.

Finish and Serve

Remove the Flammkuchen from the oven, top with smoked salmon and arugula, and garnish with fresh dill. Slice and serve immediately!

Let the Flammkuchen cool for a minute before slicing to maintain its crispiness!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the salmon before serving. It enhances the flavors beautifully!

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing Flammkuchen in advance can simplify your cooking process, particularly for gatherings. You can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. Alternatively, you can bake the Flammkuchen without the toppings and freeze it. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 10-12 minutes, then add your toppings and heat for another few minutes.

For the toppings, you might consider preparing the crème fraîche mixture and slicing the onions ahead of time. Store these in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be cautious with the smoked salmon; it's best added fresh to avoid compromising its texture and flavor. Assemble right before baking to ensure the toppings are at their freshest.

Serving Suggestions

This Flammkuchen can shine as a beautiful appetizer or a light main course. For a casual gathering, slice it into smaller pieces to serve as finger food, accompanied by a glass of crisp white wine or a light beer. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette to enhance the overall dining experience and cut through the richness of the dish.

For a more festive touch, think about adding toppings right before serving. A sprinkle of fresh dill or cilantro can brighten up the presentation, while a dash of lemon juice offers a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the creamy and smoky elements. A few capers or pickled red onions on the side can also enhance the flavor profile and allow guests to customize their slices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like goat cheese, capers, or even roasted vegetables.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.

→ How should I store leftover Flammkuchen?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough for a delicious gluten-free version.