Smoked Salmon Dip
Smoked Salmon Dip is a creamy, tangy treat that mixes rich smoked salmon with smooth cream cheese and a hint of dill. It’s got a perfect balance of smoky flavor…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Smoked Salmon Dip is a creamy, tangy treat that mixes rich smoked salmon with smooth cream cheese and a hint of dill. It’s got a perfect balance of smoky flavor and fresh, bright notes that make it easy to love. The texture is silky with little bites of tender salmon throughout, making each spoonful a delightful surprise.
I always keep a batch of this dip ready when friends come over because it’s such a crowd-pleaser. I like to add a squeeze of lemon right before serving—it wakes everything up and makes the dip even more refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes, which is perfect for last-minute plans.
My favorite way to enjoy this dip is with crunchy crackers or fresh veggie sticks, but it’s also amazing spread on a bagel or sandwich. It reminds me of cozy brunches with family where everyone reaches for the dip first. If you love smoky flavors but want something quick and simple, this smoked salmon dip will become your go-to snack in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the dip its creamy texture. I like using full-fat cream cheese for the best richness. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt, but expect a tangier taste.
Smoked Salmon: The star here. Opt for quality smoked salmon with a good balance of smoky flavor. If unavailable, you can use smoked trout or even cooked salmon with a dash of liquid smoke for a similar effect.
Fresh Herbs (Dill & Chives): Dill adds a fresh, pine-like flavor that pairs beautifully with smoked salmon. Chives give a mild onion kick. If fresh isn’t an option, dried herbs can work but use less, as they’re more concentrated.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the dip and balances richness. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Don’t skip it—it really lifts the flavors.
Worcestershire Sauce & Paprika: Worcestershire adds a subtle depth and umami, while paprika gives a hint of warmth and color. Smoked paprika can enhance the smoky notes even more.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture Without Overmixing?
The key is to soften your cream cheese well before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly with sour cream and mayo without lumps. Here’s how I do it:
- Leave cream cheese out at room temp for about 30 minutes before use.
- Use a hand mixer or spatula to combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo gently until creamy.
- When folding in salmon and herbs, do it gently to keep nice chunks—this adds texture and looks appealing.
- After mixing, chill the dip for at least 30 minutes. It thickens up and the flavors come together nicely.
Avoid overmixing once you add the salmon so you still get those lovely bites instead of a mushy dip.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to easily combine all the ingredients without spilling.
- Spatula or spoon – great for folding in the salmon gently without overmixing.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get your seasoning and liquids just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the smoked salmon and fresh herbs.
- Serving bowl – to present your dip nicely, plus it’s handy for chilling in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap smoked salmon for smoked trout or cooked shrimp for a different seafood twist.
- Add finely chopped red onion or shallots for a sharper flavor and crunch.
- Mix in capers to add a salty, briny punch that complements the fish well.
- Stir in a little horseradish or Dijon mustard to give the dip a subtle spicy kick.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crackers or fresh veggies for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes chilling time to let the flavors blend together. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for last-minute snacks or parties.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you get a smooth, creamy texture. This helps make the dip rich and silky.
2. Add Flavors:
Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well so all ingredients combine evenly, giving the dip a balanced flavor.
3. Fold in Smoked Salmon and Herbs:
Gently fold the chopped smoked salmon, fresh dill, and chives into the creamy mixture. Do this carefully to keep some texture and chunks of salmon, which make the dip more enjoyable.
4. Adjust and Chill:
Taste your dip and add a little more lemon juice or salt if you want. Then transfer it to a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra dill and paprika on top, cover, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smoked salmon dip with crunchy crackers or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s a delicious, creamy treat that’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Smoked Salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in your dip.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again to refresh the texture.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Making it a few hours or a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered and chilled until ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
You can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist, but keep in mind this might change the texture and richness slightly.