The Creamiest Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe for Your Next Gathering

Creamy, dreamy smoked salmon dip surprises even seasoned appetizer enthusiasts with its rich, velvety texture.

Salmon lovers will adore this quick blend of classic ingredients.

Mediterranean and Scandinavian culinary traditions inspire this delectable spread.

Fresh dill and cracked pepper add vibrant notes to the mixture.

Crisp vegetables or warm crackers make perfect companions for this delightful dip.

Weekend gatherings or casual snack times become extra special with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

You won’t be able to resist its irresistible charm and bold flavors.

Why Smoked Salmon Dip Is A Creamy Favorite

• Craft with Ease: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quick appetizer without complex techniques.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare the dip in minutes using a food processor, blending ingredients seamlessly for a smooth, delicious spread that impresses guests effortlessly.
• Versatile Party Companion: Ideal for gatherings, game nights, or casual get-togethers, this dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks, satisfying diverse taste preferences.
• Customize Your Creation: Experiment with additional herbs, adjust seasonings, or swap ingredients to match your flavor profile, making this recipe a flexible canvas for culinary creativity.

Ingredients For Smoked Salmon Dip

• Smoked Salmon: A rich, smoky fish that provides the primary flavor and texture of the dip.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy base to the dip.
• Sour Cream: Contributes tanginess and helps create a light, spreadable consistency.
• Mayonnaise: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a subtle richness.

• Dill: A fresh herb that complements the salmon with its distinctive, slightly tangy flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a mild, aromatic seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that balance and elevate the dip's flavor profile.

• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dip with a fresh, zesty note and helps balance the rich ingredients.

How To Prepare Smoked Salmon Dip

Step 1: Gather Your Flavor Powerhouses

• Smoked salmon
• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh dill
• Lemon
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 2: Blend The Magic

Toss all ingredients into a food processor. Pulse and blend until the mixture transforms into a silky, creamy consistency. Make sure no large salmon chunks remain, creating a smooth texture that will make taste buds dance.

Step 3: Chill And Enhance

Transfer your luxurious salmon spread into a serving bowl. Pop it into the refrigerator and let the flavors mingle and intensify for at least one hour. This resting time allows the herbs and seasonings to harmonize beautifully.

Step 4: Serve With Flair

Remove the dip from the refrigerator. Arrange an assortment of crispy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks around the bowl. Watch as your guests dive into this creamy, oceanic delight that’s perfect for any gathering.

Pro Tip: This spread keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead appetizer.

Pro Tips For Smoked Salmon Dip

• Opt for high-quality smoked salmon to enhance the dip's rich flavor and smooth texture.
• Mix ingredients at room temperature for easier blending and a more consistent result.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, adding extra dill or lemon juice for a brighter, zestier profile.
• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and reduce mayonnaise amount.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify in the refrigerator.

Fun Variations On Smoked Salmon Dip

• Herbed Salmon Spread: Enhance the dip by adding fresh chopped chives, parsley, and tarragon for a vibrant, garden-fresh flavor profile.
• Spicy Smoky Version: Mix in sriracha sauce, red pepper flakes, and a dash of cayenne to create a bold, fiery kick that complements the salmon's richness.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, roasted red peppers, and a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend for a Mediterranean-inspired transformation.
• Citrus Zinger: Boost the lemon juice with orange zest and a touch of lime juice, adding bright, tangy notes that elevate the overall taste of the dip.

Best Pairings For Smoked Salmon Dip

• Pair Zesty Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp white wine cuts through the rich, smoky salmon flavors, refreshing the palate with bright citrus notes that complement the creamy dip.
• Serve with Artisan Rye Crackers: Hearty, slightly tangy rye crackers provide a robust crunch and earthy undertone that beautifully balances the smooth, delicate salmon spread.
• Garnish with Fresh Herb Sprinkle: Chopped chives or additional fresh dill add a vibrant, green layer of flavor that enhances the dip's complexity and provides a light, aromatic finish.
• Match with Cucumber Rounds: Cool, crisp cucumber slices offer a hydrating, light alternative to crackers, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy salmon dip.

How To Store Smoked Salmon Dip Safely

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep chilled at or below 40°F to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer dip to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Bring dip to room temperature. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Stop when just heated through to prevent separation.
• If dip seems slightly separated after storage, simply whisk or stir vigorously to restore its creamy consistency before serving.

FAQs About Smoked Salmon Dip

• Is smoked salmon safe to eat without cooking?

Yes, smoked salmon is already cured and cooked during the smoking process, making it safe to consume directly in recipes like this dip.

• Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?

No, fresh salmon won’t provide the same intense flavor profile. Smoked salmon is key to creating the distinctive taste of this dip.

• How long can I keep this dip in the refrigerator?

The smoked salmon dip stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• What can I do if the dip is too thick?

If the consistency is too dense, simply add a little more sour cream or lemon juice and mix until you reach the desired smoothness.

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

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4.5 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy “Smoked Salmon Dip” blends rich Atlantic salmon with tangy cream cheese and zesty herbs for an elegant appetizer. Guests will devour this luxurious spread, perfect for parties or quiet weekend snacking with crisp crackers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) smoked salmon

Main Dairy Components:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) mayonnaise

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons (6 grams) fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Serving Suggestion:

• Crackers
• Bread

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Instructions

1. Blend smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency.
2. Ensure no large salmon chunks remain by processing for 30-45 seconds, scraping down sides as needed.
3. Refrigerate the dip for a minimum of 60 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
4. Chill in a sealed container to prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
5. Before serving, let the dip rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
6. Arrange on a platter with an assortment of crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudités for dipping.
7. Optionally garnish with additional fresh dill or chopped chives for visual appeal and extra herbal notes.

Notes

• Ensure salmon is high-quality and free from bones for a smooth, silky texture.
• Adjust consistency by adding more sour cream or mayonnaise if dip feels too thick.
• Use fresh dill for a brighter, more vibrant herb flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• For a lighter version, swap full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt to reduce calories.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 177
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 366 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg