This is a really fun first course. It can be kind of laborious so don't do it for a party of 10 or so. But it is fun to make, present and eat. This will make one pallet:
You will need one large ring mold (the largest size from one of those concentric sets).
5 very thin slices of salmon
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup salmon diced small as for tartare
1-2 Tbsp. red onion diced very small but not minced
1-2 Tbsp. fresh mayonnaise (yes, you should make your own)
Chopped dill to taste
S&P
Buy one small tail fillet of salmon ( you don't want the pin bone section). Lay your knife on top of the fillet and gently slice along the length so you get a very long, thin slice. Do this five times. You may want to slice a few extra just in case you need them. Lay the slices between parchment and place in the fridge.
Mix the rest of the ingredients, except the lemon juice, together so that you have a mixture that will hold together and not be runny. Taste for seasoning and make any adjustments you wish.
Lay the ring mold on a plate. Working quickly, dredge the salmon slices in the lemon juice, pat dry, and arrange them so that they drape over the sides of the mold. You don't have to cover the bottom but you will want to cover the top. Fill the mold with the tartare mixture and fold the salmon slices over the top to cover. Very gently, remove the mold and serve.
If you take some red lettuce leaves and take the ruffled tops off you can make a nice rose garnish and set this on top of the pallet. Or you can just garnish it with some dill flowers. But you will want to cover the folds of salmon with something for presentation.
Good luck. I hope that was clear. When you make one you will easily see how to multiply the recipe for more.
rwj