Quick and Creamy Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe
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Smoked salmon spread with cream cheese is a quick and flavorful way to bring something special to the table without much effort. With simple ingredients like dill, capers, mayo, and a splash of lemon juice, this creamy and smoky spread comes together in just 5 minutes.
If you love salmon as much as I do, this spread is about to become your new go-to recipe. While I often make salmon dinners, sometimes you just want something simple that you can whip up in minutes, like this smoked salmon spread.
It beats anything you will find at the store and is perfect when those salmon cravings hit. Grab your favorite dippers and let’s get started.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-ahead friendly: Whip up a batch and keep it in the fridge for easy snacks. It also makes a great spread for toast or a quick mix-in for pasta.
- Quick and easy prep: Mix everything together, and your appetizer is ready to serve in minutes.
- Homemade and wholesome: Skip the store-bought versions filled with extras. This recipe uses real, simple ingredients for fresh flavor in every bite.
- Customize to your taste: Try new herbs, adjust the seasoning, or toss in your favorite extras to make this recipe exactly how you like it.
- Bright, balanced flavors: Creamy texture with smoky salmon, fresh herbs, and a pop of lemon makes every bite feel light but flavorful.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Spread
Smoked salmon spread is a simple way to add bold flavor to any snack or appetizer spread. With just a few ingredients, you can make a creamy, savory dip that’s great for sharing or keeping on hand for quick bites throughout the week.
Scroll down for the printable recipe card with a full list of ingredients, exact measurements, and simple step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients You Need
- Cream cheese: This gives the dip its rich, creamy base and smooth texture. Philadelphia is my go-to, but feel free to use your favorite brand.
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lemon juice:. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled works if that’s what you have, just keep in mind it can taste a little flat.
- Smoked salmon: Fresh or thawed frozen salmon is what I use for holidays. I usually go for canned smoked salmon (drained!) for a weekday dip. Wild-caught is a good quality option, if it fits your budget.
- Dill
- Capers: Bring a salty, briny pop.
- Salt and black pepper
Step-By-Step Instructions
Bring bold, smoky flavor to the table with this easy smoked salmon spread. In just 5 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, satisfying spread that pairs well with everything from crunchy vegetables to toasted bread. Simple steps and everyday ingredients make this a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.
Step 1: Blend the base
In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Mix in the flavor
Add the smoked salmon, dill (just the soft leaves, not the stems), capers, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times until everything is combined, leaving small pieces of salmon for texture.
Step 3: Chill or serve
You can serve it right away or cover and refrigerate until you’re ready. The flavor gets even better as it sits.
Substitutions
This 5-minute smoked salmon spread comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. If you need to make a few swaps, here are some easy options:
- Cream cheese: Swap with ricotta for a lighter texture, mascarpone for a sweeter and creamier option, or Neufchâtel for a slightly milder flavor.
- Mayonnaise and sour cream: If you are out of either, plain Greek yogurt works as an easy substitute and keeps the dip nice and creamy.
- Lemon juice: No lemons? Use a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar to add a similar tangy flavor.
- Smoked salmon: Flaked cooked salmon offers a milder taste, or try smoked trout for a different smoky flavor.
- Dill: Dried works if fresh is not available. Just use about one-third of the amount. Chives, parsley, or tarragon also make great substitutes.
- Capers: Chopped green olives bring a similar salty flavor, or try adding a splash of pickle juice or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Expert Tips
- Spice things up: Spice it up with hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne, or a bit of horseradish for bold flavor.
- Taste before you season: With salty ingredients already in the mix, a quick taste test will help avoid over-seasoning.
- Play with the consistency: Thin it out with extra sour cream or lemon juice if it feels too thick.
How to Store This Recipe
For the best flavor, prepare the dip a few hours ahead and let it chill before serving. Keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days using an airtight container like a mason jar.
Freezing is not ideal because dairy-based dips often separate and lose their creamy texture. Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or let it warm slightly to room temperature before serving.
What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Spread
Serve this smoked salmon spread the classic way with crunchy crackers, bagel chips, toasted baguette slices, or any bread you enjoy. For a lighter option, try pairing it with fresh veggies like cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, or celery sticks.
It also works beautifully as a spread for toasted bagels, sourdough, or rye bread – it pairs perfectly with our favorite charcuterie board breads. Try it as a tasty topping for baked potatoes or a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
More Easy Dips To Try
- Blackened ranch sauce
- Copycat Lawson’s chip dip
- 3-ingredient onion dip
- Caramelized onion dip
- Spinach artichoke dip
The Easiest Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ medium lemon juiced
- 4 ounces smoked salmon
- 2 tablespoons dill
- 1 tablespoon capers
- ¼ teaspoons salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the smoked salmon, dill (just the soft leaves, not the stems), capers, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times until everything is combined, leaving small pieces of salmon for texture.
- You can serve it right away or cover and refrigerate until you’re ready. The flavor gets even better as it sits.
Notes
- With salty ingredients already in the mix, a quick taste test will help avoid over-seasoning.
- Thin it out with extra sour cream or lemon juice if it feels too thick.
