Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip is a crazy delicious appetizer recipe that everyone gets excited about. This recipe uses lemon, sour cream, and dill to complement the delicate flavors of the salmon, and incorporates capers for a saltiness that enhanced the recipe. 

Serving a crowd? Try my sweet and sour meatballs recipe for dinner, and these vanilla cupcakes for dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

There are many reasons to love this tasty dip! Here are just a few:

• It’s quick and easy to make. Just use a food processor to blend all your ingredients and you’re done!
• Salmon is full of protein and healthy fats. 
• Smoked salmon dip can be served with a variety of foods for dipping and spreading.
• It’s perfect for parties or gatherings and makes plenty to serve a crowd.
• It’s a bit fancy! Everyone will think you worked hard to make this delicious smoked salmon dip!

What to serve with Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip can be served with crackers on the side, but there are lots of food that you can dip in it, or spread it on. Try any of these:

• Crackers
• French baguette slices
• Melba toasts
• Mini naan bread
• Raw veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers
• Pita chips
• Toast points
• Crostini
• Tortilla chips

Helpful Equipment To Make Smoked Salmon Dip

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Food processor

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 4 oz smoked salmon
• ½ lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh dill
• 1 tbsp capers
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How To Make Smoked Salmon Dip

Add the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and the juice of the lemon to your food processor. Process until well combined.

Then, add the smoked salmon, capers, fresh dill (make sure to remove the stems), salt, and pepper. Process again, but this time, make sure you don’t let it process for too long, so you keep little chunks of smoked salmon for texture.

Serve with toast or crostini.

Prep Time

This recipe takes 10 minutes to prep.

Tips & Tricks and Recipe Notes

• Allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before starting your recipe. This helps make sure your dip is light and doesn’t have lumps.
• Salmon can really vary in flavor, so pick up good-quality smoked salmon.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning to your own tastes before serving. 
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can chop the smoked salmon into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients instead of putting it in the food processor.

All About Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip is a pescatarian-friendly recipe that is also gluten-free (make sure you serve it alongside gluten-free accompaniments).

It contains cream cheese and sour cream, it isn’t dairy-free, but if you want to make this recipe without dairy, you can use nut-based cream cheese and plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! There are a few substitutions you can make to customize the recipe to your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Instead of smoked salmon, you can use canned salmon or fresh salmon, with a slightly different flavor.
• If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill instead. Read your container for the equivalent amounts.
• For a tangier flavor, you can use more lemon juice or add a tablespoon of white wine vinegar.
• To make this recipe a bit healthier, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and sour cream.

How to Store Smoked Salmon Dip

If you have any leftovers, store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Try to get this dip into the fridge quickly so it doesn’t sit out too long.

Can I freeze Smoked Salmon Dip?

This dip can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, transfer the dip to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving again.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time! Prepare the dip according to the instructions. Cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. Leaving this dip overnight or for 24 hours will help the flavors intensify.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, you can use canned salmon instead of smoked salmon with a slightly different flavor. Drain the canned salmon very well before using it.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?

Yes, you can use dried dill instead of fresh dill. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried dill instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeno pepper to the dip if you want a touch of heat. You can also serve the dip with hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.

Conclusion

This is a tremendously delicious dip recipe that’s perfect for any party or family get-together. It comes together in a snap!

Don’t have a gathering to go to? That’s okay! Make this smoked salmon dip and snack on it all weekend long.

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