This Smoked Salmon Dip is creamy and flavorful, perfect for spreading on crackers or bagels. It’s a delightful combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fun herbs!
I love serving this dip at parties because it’s so easy to make. Just mix everything, and you’ve got a tasty treat that everyone will enjoy—no cooking required!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is a must for this dip. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese, which has fewer calories. Vegan cream cheese is a great substitute if you’re dairy-free.
Smoked Salmon: Choose high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. If you’re not a fan of salmon, you could use smoked trout or even canned tuna for a similar vibe.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Greek yogurt is a good swap for a healthier version. You can also mix in some mayonnaise for extra richness if desired.
Fresh Dill: Dill gives a lovely fresh flavor. If you’re out of fresh dill, you can use dried dill, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. Chives or parsley can be nice alternatives too!
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens flavors in the dip. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works but is less vibrant. Skip the zest if you don’t have it; the juice alone will still taste great.
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
Achieving a smooth, creamy dip is all about technique. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Let the cream cheese sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- When adding the smoked salmon and other ingredients, gently fold them in to maintain some texture.
- Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives it a better texture.
Following these steps ensures that your Smoked Salmon Dip will be the creamy, flavorful delight you want it to be!
How to Make Smoked Salmon Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz (115 g) smoked salmon, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- Crackers or bagel chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Smoked Salmon Dip is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes to mix everything together and then at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld. So, in total, it will take around 40 minutes before you can enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend them together until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. Make sure there are no lumps!
2. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, gently fold in the finely chopped smoked salmon, fresh dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest if you’re using it. Mix everything gently so that the smoked salmon remains in little pieces and doesn’t get completely pureed.
3. Season It Up:
Now, it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir again to combine everything nicely. Take a little taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
4. Prepare to Chill:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. For a nice presentation, garnish the top with a small sprig of dill and a light sprinkle of black pepper. It’s looking good already!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dip become even more flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your dip is ready to go! Serve it cold with crackers or bagel chips for dipping. Enjoy the delightful creamy and smoky flavors!
This easy, no-cook dip combines the smoky flavor of salmon with creamy and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for entertaining or a savory snack.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of the dip! Just keep in mind that this might alter the creaminess slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
How Long Does This Dip Last in the Fridge?
The Smoked Salmon Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some ingredients may separate over time.
Can I Freeze Leftover Dip?
While you can technically freeze the dip, it’s not recommended because the texture may change once thawed. Cream cheese and sour cream can become grainy after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
For serving, crackers and bagel chips work perfectly, but you can also serve it with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips for a healthy crunch!