Salmon Cream Cheese Recipe

 

Salmon and cream cheese is a classic combination that never fails to impress. This recipe for Salmon Cream Cheese Spread is perfect for bagels, crackers, or as a dip for fresh vegetables. It's creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through the process.

Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces smoked salmon, finely chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)

Crackers or bagels (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare Ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature, as this will make it easier to mix. Finely chop the smoked salmon, red onion, fresh dill, and capers. Grate the lemon to get the zest, and then juice the lemon.

Mix Cream Cheese and Lemon: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. The lemon juice and zest will add a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the rich cream cheese.

Add Salmon and Other Ingredients: Fold in the finely chopped smoked salmon, red onion, fresh dill, and capers. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. The smoked salmon brings a savory, smoky flavor, while the red onion adds a slight bite. Fresh dill provides a herby, aromatic note, and capers add a burst of tanginess.

Season and Taste: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the smoked salmon and capers are already quite salty. Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Chill: Transfer the salmon cream cheese spread to a serving bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps firm up the spread, making it easier to serve.

Serve: Before serving, give the spread a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve the salmon cream cheese spread with crackers, bagels, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell pepper strips.

The Salmon Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. The creamy base of softened cream cheese is infused with the savory, smoky flavor of smoked salmon. Red onion adds a subtle sharpness, while fresh dill and capers provide a herbaceous and tangy contrast. The lemon juice and zest bring a bright, citrusy note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

This spread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer for a gathering. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even further. The combination of textures and flavors makes this spread a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress your guests.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Salmon Cream Cheese Spread is a delicious and elegant addition to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect companion for bagels, crackers, or fresh vegetables. The recipe is straightforward and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you're serving it at a brunch, a party, or simply enjoying it as a snack, this spread is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of smoked salmon and creamy cheese in every bite.