Croque-Monsieur with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

Introduction
The Croque-Monsieur is a beloved French sandwich traditionally made with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, then grilled to golden perfection. But what happens when you add a touch of luxury with smoked salmon and a creamy, tangy spread of cream cheese? This unique twist on the classic recipe combines the richness of the original with the delicate flavors of smoked salmon, making it the perfect indulgence for a brunch, lunch, or a special treat. Whether you're a fan of the original Croque-Monsieur or looking to try something new, this recipe will elevate your sandwich game to a whole new level.

Ingredients
8 slices of crusty bread (preferably sourdough or a French baguette)
4 oz (115 g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
4 slices of Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
1 tbsp lemon zest (optional for added freshness)
Directions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with Dijon mustard, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice.
Top 4 of the slices with a layer of smoked salmon, then add a slice of Gruyère cheese on top of the salmon. Place the other 4 slices of bread on top, cream cheese side down, creating a sandwich.
Grill the Sandwiches:

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
Place the sandwiches in the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
Optional Finishing Touches: For an extra cheesy, crispy topping, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on the sandwiches just before flipping, allowing it to melt and crisp up for a golden finish.

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve the Croque-Monsieur with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese immediately after grilling, while the cheese is melty and the bread is crispy. You can garnish with extra fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to melt the cheese while avoiding over-browning the bread.
Variations<!--nextpage-->
Vegetarian Option: Skip the smoked salmon and opt for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the cream cheese mixture for some heat.
Herb Infusion: Instead of dill, experiment with other herbs like chives, tarragon, or thyme to complement the salmon's flavor.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of bread? Yes! You can use any type of bread that suits your preference, such as whole wheat, rye, or a baguette. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the filling.

2. Can I use another type of cheese? Gruyère is a traditional choice for Croque-Monsieur, but you can substitute it with Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? For the best results, it’s recommended to assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the fridge. However, grilling them fresh will give you the crispiest and most flavorful result.

4. Can I make this a Croque-Madame? To make a Croque-Monsieur into a Croque-Madame, simply top the sandwich with a fried egg after grilling for an extra indulgent touch.