Need an appetizer that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser? Look no further than this delicious Smoked Salmon Dip recipe! The combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and herbs results in a dip that’s packed with flavor but still light enough to enjoy as an appetizer. Serve it up with some of your favorite crackers for the perfect party snack!
Salmon
The star of this Smoked Salmon Dip recipe is, of course, the salmon! Smoked salmon gives it a unique and delicious flavor that can’t be replicated with any other ingredient. If you want to make your own smoked salmon for this dish, there are several methods that you can use – from brining and cold-smoking to hot-smoking or even using an oven. However, if you don’t have the time or resources to make your own smoked salmon, storebought options are widely available and will work just as well in this recipe, and is what we will be using this recipe to make things quick and easy. Whichever option you choose, the delicate smoky flavor combined with cream cheese and herbs makes for a fantastic dip!
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is the perfect base for this Salmon Dip recipe because it is creamy, rich, and flavorful. To keep things light and healthy, we are using 1/3 less fat cream cheese which helps to reduce the overall fat content of the dip while still keeping that delicious creamy texture. The cream cheese also adds a subtle tanginess to balance out the smoky flavor of the salmon.
Lemon
Lemon is the perfect addition to this Salmon Dip recipe, adding both a vibrant flavor and a hint of acidity that helps to balance out the smoky flavors of the salmon. The lemon juice adds brightness and freshness while the zest gives an extra punch of flavor. Lemon also helps to cut through any richness from the cream cheese, making it light enough for an appetizer but still packed with flavor!
Dill Weed
Dill weed is a common herb used in many culinary dishes, and it plays an important part in this Smoked Salmon Dip recipe. Dill weed has a fresh and tangy flavor profile, and it complements the richness of cream cheese and smoky flavor of the salmon in this dish. In this recipe, dill weed adds a subtle yet distinct flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dip. It is a versatile herb that can be used in various dishes, but in this Salmon Dip, it is one of the key ingredients that make this recipe a crowd-pleaser. If you don’t want to use dried dill weed then using fresh dill weed works perfectly as well.
Salmon Dip
Servings
8
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Calories
85
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time 5 Minutes
*Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate only and may vary depending on the ingredients used. Calories listed are per serving.*
ingredients
- 4 oz Smoked Salmon (use less if you want a less smoky dip)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 Lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 Tbsp Dill Weed (fresh dill weed or dried works. use less if desired)
*Disclosure, below are affiliate links to products we recommend. We do not include links to products we have not used or honestly recommend*
What Tools You Will Need
Directions
Step 01
Zest the lemon and measure out your dill weed. If you’re using fresh dill weed, dice it as finely as you can.
Step 02
Add your softened cream cheese, lemon zest, juice from 1 lemon, and dill weed to the cream cheese. Beat with mixer until well combined.
Step 03
Add the smoked salmon and gently mix in until combined with a spatula.
Step 04
Serve with your favorite dip crackers and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust your salmon and dill levels to your desired levels.
- Use store bought smoked salmon for a quick and easy dip.
- If you want a spicy salmon dip, add some of your favorite hot sauce.
FAQ
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes! This Salmon Dip can be made up to two days in advance – simply cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. In fact, making it ahead of time can actually enhance the flavor as the herbs and smoked salmon have more time to meld together.
What kind of crackers go well with this dip?
Any type of crackers will work well with this Salmon Dip, but we recommend using crackers that are not too salty or overpowering in flavor, such as whole wheat or multigrain crackers. That way, you can really taste the delicious flavors in the dip.
Can this recipe be made with fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?
While the smoky flavor of the salmon is what makes this dip so flavorful, you can certainly use fresh salmon if you prefer. Simply bake or grill the salmon until cooked through before flaking it and adding it to the cream cheese mixture. However, be aware that the final flavor and texture of the dip will be different than if using smoked salmon.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! There are several dairy-free cream cheese options available in most grocery stores that can be used in place of traditional cream cheese. Look for brands made with plant-based ingredients such as soy or nut milk.
Is this recipe healthy?
While this Salmon Dip recipe is not necessarily low in fat or calories, it can absolutely be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Using 1/3 less fat cream cheese helps to reduce the overall fat content, and the dip is packed with protein from the salmon. Plus, serving it with whole wheat or multigrain crackers adds fiber to the dish.
Salmon Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Ounces Smoked Salmon or less if desired
- 8 Ounces Cream Cheese use a less fat version for lower calories
- 1 Tbsp Dill Weed use less if desired
- 1 Lemon zested and juiced
Instructions
- Zest the lemon and measure out your dill weed.
- Add your softened cream cheese, lemon zest, juice from 1 lemon, and dill weed to the cream cheese. Beat with mixer until well combined.
- Add the smoked salmon and gently mix in until combined with a spatula.
- Serve with your favorite dip crackers and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Adjust your salmon and dill levels to your desired levels.
- Use store bought smoked salmon for a quick and easy dip.
- If you want a spicy salmon dip, add some of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutrition
Summary
Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed this smoked salmon dip recipe. If you have any questions or comments go ahead and leave them in the comments below or feel free to email us. What is your favorite way to make salmon dip? Did this smoked salmon dip recipe make it into the list of your favorite recipes? Let us know in the comments below. For more awesome recipes check below.
