Why You’ll Love The Best Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe
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The combination of smoked salmon, capers, fresh dill and green onion gives a bright, tangy, slightly briny flavor that complements the richness of the cream cheese.
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It’s very quick and easy to prepare — just a few minutes in a food processor.
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The texture is smooth and creamy, yet you can intentionally leave bits of salmon chunky to give it more bite and visual appeal.
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It’s versatile — works equally well as a party dip or a spread for breakfast bagels, appetizers, or light lunches.
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Minimal cooking required: no baking or stovetop needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheese, softened
smoked salmon, chopped
capers (optional, to taste)
chopped green onion (optional)
fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
heavy whipping cream
Worcestershire sauce
hot pepper sauce (a few drops, optional for heat)
fresh lemon juice
Directions
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Gather all ingredients.
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Place the softened cream cheese in a food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy.
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Add the chopped smoked salmon, capers, green onion, chopped dill, heavy cream, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce, a couple drops of hot pepper sauce if using, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
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Process again until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended.
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Transfer the spread into a serving bowl, garnish with additional dill (if desired), and serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices or bagels.
Servings and timing
Makes approximately 10 servings.
Prep time: about 15 minutes.
Variations
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Herb Boost: Add chives, parsley, or tarragon for an herbal twist.
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Extra Tang: Mix in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added tang and lightness.
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Spicy Version: Include finely minced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
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Texture Change: Leave some of the salmon unprocessed and fold it in for added texture.
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Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus note.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for around 3–4 days. Since this is a cold spread, there is no reheating required — just stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular (non-smoked) salmon instead of smoked salmon?
Yes — but since it won’t have the same smoky, cured flavor, you’ll likely want to cook and season the salmon (e.g., with salt, pepper, perhaps smoked paprika) before mixing it in. The spread will turn out differently, but it’s still possible.
Can I make the spread ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, chilling the mixture for a few hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld and often results in a tastier spread.
What can I serve the smoked salmon spread with?
It’s great with crackers, bagel or toast slices, baguette, pita chips, bagel chips — or even fresh veggies for a lighter option.
How can I adjust the consistency if the spread is too thick or too dense?
If too thick, stir in a little more heavy cream (or a splash of milk) until you reach the desired consistency. If too loose, chill the spread in the fridge — it will firm up slightly.
Can I omit dairy or use a lighter version?
You could try substituting part or all of the cream cheese with a lighter base (like Greek yogurt or a dairy-free spread), but note that this will change the flavor and texture. The result will be less rich and less creamy.
How can I adjust the spice or flavor for milder tastes?
Simply skip the hot pepper sauce or add it in very small amounts. Taste as you go, especially if you’re sensitive to heat.
Can I double or halve the recipe easily?
Yes. The recipe scales fairly well. For best texture, avoid over-processing if making a smaller batch.
Can I freeze the spread?
Freezing is not recommended — cream cheese–based spreads often separate or become grainy after freezing and thawing.
How long does the spread stay fresh in the fridge?
Generally 3–4 days if kept in an airtight container; always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
Is this recipe suitable for a special diet (e.g., gluten-free, keto)?
Yes. The base ingredients (smoked salmon, cream cheese, herbs, etc.) are naturally gluten-free, and if you avoid crackers or bread, the spread works well with low-carb or keto-friendly dippers.
Conclusion
This smoked salmon spread is a delicious and elegant option for any occasion. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for quick snacks, brunch platters, or party appetizers. Whether you serve it on toast, crackers, or bagels, it’s sure to impress every time.
The Best Smoked Salmon Spread
This smoked salmon spread is a creamy, flavorful appetizer made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. Perfect for parties, bagels, or crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins (including chilling)
- Yield: 2 cups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place cream cheese and sour cream in a mixing bowl. Blend together until smooth.
- Add lemon juice, dill, chives, Worcestershire sauce, and hot pepper sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in chopped smoked salmon until evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Notes
- Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
- You can make this spread a day in advance to enhance the taste.
- Serve with bagel chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
