Perfect Easy Creamy Smoked Salmon Spread
Perfect Easy Creamy Smoked Salmon Spread
Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite go-to appetizer: the Perfect Easy Creamy Smoked Salmon Spread! This delightful spread is incredibly simple to whip up, yet tastes wonderfully rich and smooth, making it an ideal appetizer for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant brunches. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dip that’s sure to impress everyone. Its vibrant flavors and luxurious texture make it utterly irresistible!
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) smoked salmon, flaked
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon red onion or chives, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Pinch of salt, if needed (smoked salmon is often salty)
Instructions
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free spread.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice. Using a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed, beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gently flake the smoked salmon into smaller pieces, removing any skin or bones if present. Add the flaked smoked salmon to the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the chopped fresh dill and finely minced red onion (or chives) to the bowl.
- Fold all the ingredients together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture from the salmon.
- Season with ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Taste the spread and add a pinch of salt only if necessary, keeping in mind that smoked salmon can be quite salty on its own. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the spread to firm up slightly, making it even more delicious.
- Serve chilled with crackers, toasted baguette slices, cucumber rounds, or your favorite raw vegetables. Enjoy!
Pro Tips & Notes
- Choose Quality Smoked Salmon: The star of this spread is the smoked salmon, so opt for a good quality product. Both hot-smoked and cold-smoked salmon work beautifully, but cold-smoked will provide a smoother texture when blended.
- Soften Your Cream Cheese: Don't skip this step! Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly, preventing lumps and ensuring a perfectly creamy consistency. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start.
- Customize Your Herbs: While dill is classic, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or even a hint of tarragon for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner spread, you can add a touch more mayonnaise or a splash of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: This spread is fantastic for making in advance! Prepare it up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will only deepen.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond crackers and bagels, try serving this spread in hollowed-out cucumber cups, mini bell pepper halves, or as a sophisticated canapé topping.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked? A: While technically possible, this recipe relies on the distinct flavor profile and texture of smoked salmon. If using fresh, you would need to cook and flake it first, but the end result will be very different from the intended "smoked salmon spread."
- Q: How long does this spread last in the refrigerator? A: Stored in an airtight container, this creamy smoked salmon spread will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Q: Can I freeze smoked salmon spread? A: Freezing is not recommended for this spread. The cream cheese and mayonnaise base can separate and become watery or grainy upon thawing, compromising the creamy texture.
- Q: What if I don't have fresh dill? A: While fresh dill is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill if absolutely necessary. However, the fresh herb truly elevates this dish.
- Q: Is this spread gluten-free? A: Yes, as long as all your ingredients (smoked salmon, cream cheese, mayonnaise, etc.) are naturally gluten-free and you serve it with gluten-free accompaniments, this spread is naturally gluten-free.